best southwest road trip itinerary

19 Stunning Southwest Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)

There may be no other region in the USA quite as otherworldly as the American Southwest. And there is absolutely no better way to appreciate that magnificent beauty than via an epic Southwest road trip itinerary!

Unfortunately, for most of us, there’s no way to encapsulate the full magnificence of the region on a single Southwest US road trip (and trust us, we’ve tried to, many times).

Because of that, we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to craft this complete guide to the best road trips in the Southwest USA, from iconic classics in Utah to offbeat highlights in Nevada to focused Southwest national parks road trips.

We’ve decided to work with a pretty generous definition of the Southwestern US for this guide, covering road trips in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado, as well as parts of Southern California and West Texas.

Whether you only have a weekend to spare or are planning the Southwest road trip of a lifetime, here are the best Southwest USA road trip routes to consider!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your Southwest USA Road Trip

Utah road trip itinerary ideas, arizona + new mexico southwest road trips, southwest road trip itineraries in colorado, cool nevada road trip ideas, west texas road trip itineraries, multi-state southwest itineraries, read more about visiting the southwest usa.

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Before diving into the best Southwest road trip itineraries below, there are a few tips to be aware of, especially if this is your first time in the region!

Pick up an America the Beautiful Pass.

If you’re planning a Southwest USA road trip itinerary, odds are very high that you’re planning to visit several national parks!

If so, consider picking up an  America the Beautiful Pass , also known as the USA’s annual national parks pass.

For only $80–less for certain groups like seniors and military personnel–the park covers day-use fees to over 2,000 federally managed lands, including all 62 national parks, for an entire year.

It’s one of the best travel deals around and will pay for itself within 3-4 visits to popular US national parks (for example, as of the time of writing, many popular Southwest national parks such as Arches and Bryce Canyon cost between $25-35 per vehicle to visit).

Buy your national parks pass  today!

Beware the heat.

Everyone talks about it, but it really can’t be overstated: the heat in the American Southwest in summer can be life-threatening and is not to be trifled with.

Water, sun protection, and keeping an eye on the weather need to be at the forefront of your mind as you work your way through the region.

If you’re planning a trip during the (long) summer, consider optimizing your schedule so that the bulk of your hiking takes place in the mornings and evenings, too, rather than in the middle of the day.

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Southwest USA road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your trip.

Shop rental cars for your Southwest road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

You’ll also want to note whether or not to return the car empty or full of fuel.

On the off chance that you’re planning on extending your road trip beyond the US Southwest into Canada or Mexico, be sure to check the requirements for crossing the border as well.

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from  Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy  today!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big road trip in the American Southwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance.

Anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better to be safe than sorry.

You can check prices and inclusions with  Safety Wing  for road trips in the Southwest USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the American Southwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your Southwest US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

Considering the long driving distances between some of the most iconic places in the Southwest, it’s easy to over-plan!

Set realistic expectations for visiting US national parks.

Many of the best national parks in the USA are located in the Southwest–and they are incredibly popular.

Be sure to research individual parks in advance to make the most of your time, as accessing the most iconic attractions often is not as simple as showing up.

Hotels tend to get booked up quickly, some parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park are now requiring most visitors to book timed entry permits in advance.

Other restrictions can pop up too–for example, Zion National Park requires visitors to use a shuttle rather than private cars to access popular hikes (unless you’re planning a winter trip, that is).

None of this detracts from the beauty of the parks–but it does mean that your experience will be much better if you plan ahead!

Kanab to Escalante

From Rachel & Clark of Seeking Our Someday

The Kanab, UT to Escalante, UT road trip gives way to some of Southern Utah’s most beautiful hidden gems.

These rural areas are filled with some of the most dramatic rock formations that you can find on an itinerary for the Southwest USA. 

Starting in Kanab, use this small town as a home base for visiting several nearby destinations.

Buckskin Gulch, just East of Kanab, is one of the longest slot canyons in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful slot canyons in Utah.

For an incredible day trip from Kanab, hike into this slot canyon from Wirepass Trailhead. Be on the lookout for ancient petroglyphs as you descend into the canyon.

Just north of Kanab are the Moqui Caves. These caves are great to explore for a couple of hours, especially in the afternoon light.

Only 30 minutes outside of Kanab, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes. These dunes are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. 

On the two-hour drive from Kanab to Escalante, make sure to stop at Bryce Canyon National Park to see the natural hoodoos in the Bryce Amphitheater and check out a few of the coolest things to see in Bryce Canyon NP .

Use Escalante as a second home base to visit more hidden gems in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Some of the most incredible landscapes can be found down Hole in the Rock Road, just south of Escalante.

Make sure to visit Zebra Slot Canyon, a very narrow slot canyon with natural striped rock, along with Devils Garden just a few miles down the road.

Further down Hole in the Rock Road are the Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons which are a fun loop hike through two beautiful slot canyons.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

This road trip could be done in a long weekend, but there are enough places to visit that we recommend 1-2 weeks to fully experience all of the stops along the way.

New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle

From Becky of SightDOING

Northern New Mexico doesn’t get the attention that the rest of the state does, but travelers willing to take an extra drive will find incredible beauty along the  Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway .

Starting from Taos and going clockwise, you’ll visit the smaller towns of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, and Angel Fire.

This part of New Mexico sits high in the mountains and the route takes you through ever-changing scenery.

Many parts are verdant green, thick with evergreens and aspens.

As the road winds, you’ll also see alpine valleys and lakes, plus the impressive Mt. Wheeler (the highest in the state).

As you drive, you’ll be reminded more of Colorado than the stereotypical desert road trips that are so iconic in the Southwest.

Perhaps as you’d expect in a beautiful destination like this, the primary activities involve the outdoors.

One of the highlights is Eagle Rock Lake, not only beautiful but home to playful otters that you might spot if you’re lucky. The picnic tables make a perfect vantage spot.

Hiking is plentiful: head out into the Columbine Hondo Wilderness for wildflowers in spring or look for waterfalls in Cimarron Canyon State Park.

Other activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and even skiing in the winter.

It’s not all about the outdoors, though. Visitors can also watch artisans in Questa, pay their respects at the Vietnam Memorial near Angel Fire, brewery hop along the trail, or explore Taos’ history.

Best of all, this New Mexico road trip is wonderful year-round.

Although the driving route is short enough that you can complete it in a day, the area is deserving of a weekend.

Allow plenty of time to stop and explore the parks and mountains along the way and consider even longer if you’re an avid hiker.

Phoenix to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

Visiting the Grand Canyon is one of the best weekend trips you can make from Phoenix. 

The  drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon  is only 4 hours and there are several stops along the way.

Montezuma Castle is one of the best preserved Native American Ruins located 94 miles from Phoenix.

It is a 5-story structure built into a recess in a white limestone cliff about 70 feet above the ground and it consists of 20 rooms.

Another great stop is Sedona, which is famous for its red rocks and great hiking trails.

You could easily spend a weekend in Sedona but it is also a great place to stop for some lunch and get out and stretch your legs.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park you will enter from the east and one of the first viewpoints is the Desert View Point and Watchtower.

This is one of the most popular viewpoints in the east and it is your first view of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. 

You can continue heading West to the main visitors center where you can walk the Trail of Time. 

The Grand Canyon Trail of Time is an interpretive walking timeline trail focusing on the highlights of the Grand Canyon so tourists can experience and appreciate the vastness of geologic time, as well as the stories captured by Grand Canyon rock layers and landscapes. 

We recommend three days as a minimum for this road trip.  Some people do this in a day but it is very rushed. 

Spending a weekend there gives you time to make stops along the way and experience the Grand Canyon.

Northern New Mexico

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment for a reason.

The southwestern state is one of the best places in the United States for a culturally immersive trip, incredible food, and beautiful desert landscapes. 

Most New Mexico road trips start and end in Albuquerque, the largest city in the state.

There are so many things to do in New Mexico with kids , or without, and you’ll find many of them in Albuquerque!

Give yourself a couple of days to explore Old Town and visit some of the great museums, like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Be sure to take the tram up to Sandia Peak. The 2.7-mile aerial tramway is the longest in the United States! 

From Albuquerque, head north to New Mexico’s capital of Santa Fe. Known for its adobe-style architecture, this historical city founded as a Spanish colony in the 1600s is as lovely as it is enchanting! 

Just northwest of Santa Fe, outside the town of Los Alamos, Bandelier National Monument is a fascinating look back in time.

In this national monument, you’ll find petroglyphs and cliff dwellings left behind by the Pueblo Indians, the indigenous tribe who originally settled the area. 

For a look at how the Pueblo live today, head to the Taos Pueblo next.

The pueblos one mile north of the town of Taos, is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States.

People have lived in this multi-story adobe building for more than 1,000 years! You can tour the pueblo, which is open to visitors except when tribal rituals take place.

300+ miles.

Ideally, give yourself about a week for this road trip through Northern New Mexico.

Denver to Aspen Loop

From Lori of Fitz 5 On the Go

The state of Colorado was made for epic road trips.  The scenery is just amazing and pretty non-stop.

Colorado’s many mountain towns are fun and welcoming places to explore and are packed with so many outdoor activities to enjoy.  

There are many great options for planning a loop from Denver.  Some can be done on a day trip, and others are more fun spread over a few days. 

For the most variety and activities in a shorter drive time consider going south to Colorado Springs, loop over to Salida then make your way north through Independence Pass. 

Take some time enjoying Aspen then stop by Glenwood Springs for fun activities before going back to Denver.

Summer or early fall is the best time for this trip before some of the roads are closed due to snow.

First, stop in Colorado Springs, where popular activities include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, the Incline, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Olympic training center, and the Broadmore.

From there, head to Salida and Buena Vista.

On the way to Salida stop by the Royal Gorge.  This amazing viewpoint is not great for those with a fear of heights but it’s beautiful.

The area has a train, a suspension bridge, and several other activities including a Skycoaster. 

After enjoying a night in Salida, head north toward Leadville.

Leadville can make a nice little stop to explore an old mountain town and get some lunch but the main attraction of the day will be Independence Pass just south of Leadville.  

Driving Independence Pass in the fall  is likely one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

As a mountain road, it is closed in the winter and no large vehicles are allowed.

Independence Pass ends in beautiful Aspen. A stop to Aspen is not complete without seeing the Maroon Bells.

To make your way back to Denver, head north toward I-70 and stop for lunch and activities in Glenwood Springs.

Glenwood Springs has a fabulous hot spring as well as a mountaintop adventure center. 

At minimum plan to stay a night in Salida and one night in Aspen. 

If you only have a weekend then consider cutting the trip in half and making a smaller loop. 

The full loop would be most enjoyable with planning a night in Colorado Springs, 1-2 nights in Salida, and at least 2 nights in Aspen.

The Extraterrestrial Highway

From Audrey of That Backpacker

For a one-of-a-kind southwest road trip that you won’t soon forget,  drive Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway !

Located in south-central Nevada and spanning a total of 98 miles between the towns of Warm Springs and Crystal Springs, State Route 375 is considered a bit of a pilgrimage for those who believe in alien life!

But even if you’re not a believer, this is still a fun road trip worth doing.

The Extraterrestrial Highway is punctuated by desert landscapes, lonely roads, and some rather unusual attractions.

Some places not to miss include ET Fresh Jerky where you can buy alien-themed snacks including bottles of Martian soda, the Extraterrestrial Highway sign which is plastered with stickers from intrepid adventurers who have completed the drive, and the Alien Research Center where you can hear stories of paranormal desert activity.

You should also visit the Black Mailbox where people leave all sorts of mementos and letters to aliens, and the Little A’le’inn Motel featuring a pick-up truck towing a UFO and a green alien welcoming all earthlings.

It’s important to note that although Area 51 is also located in the area, it is strictly off-limits.

There are numerous signs to remind you that no video, no photography, and no droning are permitted, so save yourself the trouble.

Though this road trip can be completed in a day, you can break it up with a stay at the infamous Little A’le’inn Motel, home to all things extraterrestrial.

You may also want to consider driving the ET Highway as part of a bigger Nevada road trip with a small detour through Valley of Fire State Park.

Las Vegas to Cathedral Gorge State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a natural wonder located in Central Nevada near Utah’s border that makes you feel like you landed on Mars. 

The park is located about 3.5 hours by car away from Las Vegas , the nearest big city, and the remote location of this place and lack of facilities, coupled with the lonely drive in the desert make for an incredible experience.

Cathedral Gorge State Park remains an undiscovered gem full of otherworldly views, amazing hiking trails, and great opportunities for photography.

It’s one of those hidden gem Southwest road trips from Las Vegas that no one talks about, and if you want to see it before it gets discovered, you need to do it now. 

Visiting Cathedral Gorge is pure magic at any time of the year.

Unlike many other popular places in the southwest USA, this state park is uncrowded and offers an amazing quiet space with fantastic landscapes.

With no big stores, chain hotels, or restaurants in the area, this is the ultimate getaway for adventure lovers.  

I recommend spending at least one day at the park and camping under the clear dark skies.

However, if you would rather stay at a hotel, the nearby town of Panaca has a couple of accommodations.

Big Bend Country Road Trip

While all of Texas may not culturally fall into the Southwest, the western part of the state does–and a Big Bend Country road trip is among the best road trips in the Southwest USA.

Make your way to the rugged, isolated, and utterly beautiful Big Bend National Park to kick off your trip.

While you’re there, hike the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, ascend into the Chisos Mountains via the Lost Mine Trail , and soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.

From there, head to Big Bend Ranch State Park to experience one of the most scenic drives in the USA.

Head a couple of hours north, and some of Texas’ most beloved small towns are waiting for you, including Alpine, Fort Davis (where you can experience some of the best stargazing in Texas at the McDonald Observatory), Marathon, and Marfa.

With wild beauty, a huge variety of landscapes, great food, and even excellent art installations, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Texas’ Big Bend Country–just be prepared for long driving distances along the way.

About 1000 miles round trip, starting and ending in El Paso.

We recommend setting aside at least one week for this Southwest road trip route.

Classic Southwest USA Road Trip from Page, AZ

From James Ian of Parks Collecting

One of the best road trips in the Southwest USA is a loop from Page, Arizona that takes in a variety of natural and cultural icons.

Starting in Page, head to Monument Valley.

Stop off at the Navajo National Monument, where you can walk on the easy paved 1.3-mile Sandal Trail to the Batatkin Cliff Dwelling overlook for views of your first cliff dwelling on the trip.

After arriving in Monument Valley around noon, head down the Monument Valley road for a self-driving tour. 

The 17-mile scenic drive loops through the valley past many of the major buttes and mesas that make this area so famous.

In the late afternoon, if you still have some energy, hike the Wildcat Trail around West Mitten.

The next day, take a Navajo-led guided tour back into the valley, where you can visit the backcountry and learn more about the Navajo people and culture.

After you leave Monument Valley, take a couple of hours to drive through the beautiful Valley of the Gods before arriving in Moab in the late afternoon. 

Moab is the adventure capital of the world, and you can arrange to go canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, or white-water rafting. Then head to nearby Arches National Park and do all the major hikes in the park.

Next up is a  visit to Mesa Verde National Park , where you will want to spend a couple of days visiting the cliff dwellings, hiking to petroglyphs, and exploring the area. 

After you leave Mesa Verde, stop for a photo at Four Corners, where you can have your limbs in four states at once!

Drive on to Canyon de Chelly, where you will want to spend a full day enjoying the views and hiking down into the canyon.

On the drive from there back to Page, you will pass through the Hopi reservation.

It is worth spending half a day on a tour with a Hopi guide to see more of the area and learn about Hopi culture.

Back in Page, don’t miss the mind-blowing Antelope Canyon and stunning Horseshoe Bend !

I recommend allowing ten days for this trip.

This will give you time to explore each of the parks/ areas and learn more about the cultural and natural environment along the way.

Trail of the Ancients

From Megan of Red Around the World

One of the most unique road trips in the Southwest is the  Trail of the Ancients  through Southeast Utah and Southwest Colorado.

It passes tons of amazing scenery but really features ancient Anasazi ruins throughout the Four Corners Area.

This is a particularly great Southwest road trip itinerary for history buffs and hikers!

Start your road trip in Cortez, where you can start making your way through some of the best places to visit in the Southwest.

Some of the highlights are Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, and Valley of the Gods, but there are tons of smaller stops along the way, too. 

Some of those include Natural Bridges National Monument, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Upper Sand Island Petroglyphs, House on Fire Ruin, Butler Wash Ruin, Goosenecks State Park, Four Corners National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and more.

Diriving Distance

About 300-400 miles, depending on stops.

I would recommend spending about 7-10 days on the Trail of the Ancients.

If you have a full 2 weeks to explore, that’s even better.

Zion National Park to Sedona Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

From Allison of She Dreams in Alpine

If you’re looking for a quick Southwestern road trip that packs a whole lot into a relatively short drive, head from Zion National Park in Utah to Sedona, Arizona.

Although Zion is the start of your road trip, it’s actually hard to leave this magical place.

From the epic Angel’s Landing hike to The Narrows slot canyon, if you’re up for adventure, you will have an amazing time here.

Don’t worry, when it’s time to hit the road, your next stop of Kanab has plenty to offer.

If you’re lucky enough to score permits, hike to the incredible swooping sandstone of The Wave.

Or, take some time to explore the beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Then head east on Highway 89 to Lake Powell, where you can take a rest day or two. Chill in the lake before heading south.

Stop at the photogenic Horseshoe Bend , then make your way to the Grand Canyon .

Bask in the breathtaking views from the rim, or challenge yourself to hike to the bottom – just know that means you also have to hike back out!

Next, make your way to Flagstaff, and enjoy the Southwestern city life in the lively downtown area. Finish your road trip in the red rock paradise of Sedona.

You can hit the trails again on some of the awesome hikes in Sedona , take an off-road Jeep tour, or pamper yourself at a spa.

You’ll definitely be ready for some relaxation by the end of this road trip through the Southwest USA!

With all the incredible outdoor places to explore along the way, you should plan at least a week for this adventurous road trip.

You could easily make it longer if you wanted to spend more time hiking around Zion, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona.

Salt Lake City to Phoenix

From Samah of God and Wanderlust

Absorb the extraterrestrial beauty of the southwest with a road trip from Salt Lake City, UT to Phoenix, AZ.

Salt Lake City is made for the adventurous at heart.

Explore Red Butte Garden, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and the Great Salt Lake itself. A scenic mountain backdrop is always included.

Skiing and other snow sports are possible in nearby Park City.

Drive south to Moab and hike your way to the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Camp under the Milky Way in Monument Valley situated on protected Navajo land.

Ride a horse among the red rocks and buttes and pretend to be in the Wild West. Visit Forrest Gump Point at the crack of dawn to avoid the rush of cars.

From here head to Zion National Park and then Page, AZ.

Check the infamous Angels Landing off your list, kayak in Lake Powell, and hike to Horseshoe Bend.

Become mesmerized by the cave formations of Antelope Canyon.

At last, you arrive at the Grand Canyon. It’s magnificent. The Bright Angel trail will guide you right into the Canyon.

Sedona is still to come. It’s the most beautiful city you’ll lay eyes on. Hot air balloons illuminate against the sun’s glow. Devils Bridge and Doe Mountain offer spectacular views.

Phoenix will eventually bring a calm end to your southwest road trip itinerary.

Its mellow, laidback atmosphere will help relax after your breathtaking journey through the southwest.

Road Trip Length

We recommend at least 2 weeks to explore various cities, do activities and make stops along the way.

Las Vegas to Monument Valley

From Hannah of Hannah Henderson Travel

For a point-to-point overview of some of the most popular Southwest road trip stops, drive from Las Vegas to Monument Valley!

Your first stop outside of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam.

This impressive man-made damn along the Colorado River marks the border between Nevada and Arizona.  

Head southeast along Hwy-93 towards Kingman, and be sure to visit the Historic Route 66 Museum.  

If you have time, take a detour and visit Oatman, an old mining town where wild burros (donkeys) roam free throughout the town.

The next leg of the road trip takes you along a small section of Historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman.

Enjoy the kitsch rest stop at Hackberry and eat lunch at the Road Kill Café .  The replica Wild West town in Seligman is a fun attraction for families too.

Continue to head east along the I-40 and then up to the Grand Canyon.  There are Grand Canyon hikes to suit many levels, educational talks, and unparalleled views.

Stay overnight at one of the rim-side cabins and witness the incredible sunset and sunrise.

The final leg of your journey will take you through some of the most captivating  desert landscapes in Arizona , onwards north towards Monument Valley.  

The land becomes more arid and sparsely populated, and you will get picture-postcard views.  

Your final stop is Oljato-Monument Valley, a Navajo Nation Tribal Park.  This valley of red rock formations is a soul-shaking place to end your road trip.  

Three to five days is a good length of time for this road trip between Las Vegas and Monument Valley.  

You can do the journey in 3 days minimum, but 5 days would offer you more time to explore the by-ways and scenic stops along the way.

LA to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

An  LA to Las Vegas road trip  can be done along several different routes, but you can’t go wrong with a route that includes some of the choicest scenery in the Sierra Nevada as well as the spectacular Death Valley National Park in California.

Admittedly, this is a longer route that involves a little bit of a detour, but for travelers with enough time on their hands, this Southwest national parks road trip itinerary cannot be beaten.

Highlights of the itinerary include the scenic Alabama Hills, Lone Pine, and Mount Whitney, and the spectacular sights in Death Valley National Park.

The Alabama Hills consist of beautiful rock formations nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The national scenic area is popular for hiking, dirt road driving, photography, camping, and night sky viewing.

At Lone Pine, you can also drive the road that goes part way up Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States.

The road is open in the summer and fall until snow accumulations close it.

Of course, you can also hike to the peak, either as a grueling day hike or as an overnighter, with a permit.

In Death Valley National Park, the main sights can be found along the road that runs through the park, the one you will be taking to get to Vegas.

If you do the road trip in the cooler months of the year, you can hike. When it’s hot, you can drive through the park and stop briefly at viewpoints for photos.

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are fun for kids and adults.

At Badwater Basin, you can have your photo taken by the sign for the lowest point in North America. Spectacular views await at Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View.

Once you are done exploring the park, it’s a quick drive to Vegas!

We suggest three days or more for this road trip.

With more than three days, you can spend more time hiking, and also explore the northern part of Death Valley National Park.

Denver to Moab

From Julia of The Cure for Curiosity

One of the best road trips in the Southwestern USA takes you from the snow-capped mountains of Denver, Colorado to the red canyons of Moab, Utah. 

During this epic  road trip from Denver to Moab , you’ll be able to see some of the best scenery the United States has to offer.

As you travel, you’ll pass through many charming small towns, complete with great hiking, hot springs, and of course panoramic views.

Start your trip in Denver, the capital of Colorado, and make your way to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Here you’ll find some stunning mountain views and world-class hiking.

Continue your trip through the renowned ski towns of Breckenridge and Vail, exploring the quaint city centers and everything they have to offer, from skiing to mountain roller coasters and free gondola rides.

The next stop is Glenwood Springs, famous for its hot springs as well as the beautiful hike to Hanging Lake.

If you have the time, you can also detour down to Aspen to check out the popular Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America.

From there, make your way through Colorado wine country in Palisade, CO to the Colorado National Monument.

This is the last stop before crossing into Utah and making your way into Moab.

Moab is the perfect end destination for a road trip as you can spend days exploring the local sights that bring droves of tourists to the area, like Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

While the drive itself can easily be done in just one day, you’d miss a lot of the fun stops along the way.

It’s best to plan about a week for this road trip to have plenty of time to explore Denver, the stops in between, and Moab.

LA to Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

From Ciara of Wellness Travel Diaries

Los Angeles to Bryce Canyon National Park— a red rock road trip experience — is a beautiful and classic Southwest USA itinerary for those wanting to escape and indulge in the unique rock formations found in Utah.

It’s a serene drive that takes about 8 hours from LA to Bryce Canyon. Add an extra two hours for a detour to Zion National Park

Here’s how to make the best of your time when road tripping from LA to Bryce Canyon and Zion .

Starting in Los Angeles, California hop on the freeway heading north toward Las Vegas. On route, you’ll find Death Valley about an hour or so off the freeway for a quick day trip.

Take another quick pitstop, right off the freeway at Eddie’s World for clean bathrooms and exquisite snacks.

Once you reach Nevada, stay the night in Las Vegas to explore the famous strip where the downtown lights, lit up the midnight sky.

It’s about four hours from LA (depending on traffic), and marks the halfway point to Bryce Canyon.

Continue toward Utah for another 160 miles to reach the first destination: Zion National Park.

Hike the beautiful trails such as Angels Landing (5.4 miles out and back) and Watchman Trail (3.3 miles out and back).

Hop back in the car for another 80 miles to reach the second destination: Bryce Canyon.

Explore the picturesque hoodoos by taking the Rim Hiking Trail (1-11 miles; it’s not a loop so hike the distance you choose) or Fairyland Loop (8 miles out and back).

Pick your route by deciding which park you’d like to visit first, then enjoy!

About 530 miles — this includes the stop in Zion National Park.

While the drive from California to Utah can be done in one day, there are several fun pit stops along this route.

It takes about seven hours to drive from Los Angeles to Zion, and then about two hours from Zion to Bryce Canyon.

To fully explore these natural wonders 6-8 days would be ideal, and allows you to split your time equally between both parks.

Phoenix to Taos to Road Trip

From Polina of Bucket List Places

One of the best itineraries to explore by car in the states is through Arizona and New Mexico.

If you are doing a winter  ski road trip itinerary , this can also be done in reverse starting in Taos.

Fly into Phoenix and rent a car (or RV for even more fun)! Then head south and stop by Saguaro National Park to view the iconic cactus after which the park is named.

From there head to White Sands National Park in New Mexico and sled down some sand dunes.

This park is vast and can be explored for the day or for multiple days if you would like to hike amongst the sand dunes.

Then head to the city to check out Albuquerque’s bustling nightlife.

In contrast, the next stop on the itinerary is Santa Fe, a beautiful historic city that looks like it is stuck in the past.

Stroll the streets and marvel at the beautiful architecture. Visit the delicious restaurants in town or get your culture on at the numerous art galleries.

Your final stop is Taos where you can view the historic Pueblan village, enjoy the delicious restaurants in town, and hang out in the historic town square.

In the wintertime, make sure to hit the slopes! 

We suggest a minimum of one week to enjoy the beautiful destinations on this road trip itinerary. 

Route 66 (Southwest Portion)

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

While Route 66 stretches from Chicago to the east to Los Angeles and Santa Monica in the west, Route 66 is the Great American Road Trip of your dreams.

Of course, when people think of driving Route 66, or the Mother Road as it’s commonly called, they think of diners and motels in the Midwest, but by the time the route crosses the border from Oklahoma into Texas, you’re officially in the part of the drive where southwestern scenery and magnificent landscapes take over.

There’s nothing more iconic than a Route 66 sign in front of a tiny Arizona town or the eye-catching Cadillac Ranch installation in Amarillo.

There are so many  things to see on Route 66 , but in this part of the country make sure to visit Petrified National Forest National Park, take a day trip to the Grand Canyon, and even venture up to Monument Valley.

The total distance of Route 66 is just under 2,500 miles, but you can easily visit only a portion on a Southwest USA road trip.

You can spend months exploring Route 66!

With a week or less, we recommend picking 1-2 states to explore.

San Jose, CA to Escalante, UT Loop

From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner

The road trip from San Jose to Escalate is an excellent way to get out into nature and have a fun outdoor vacation, and features plenty of of classic Southwestern landscapes along the way.

The drive is about 12 hours plus additional time for stops.

Along the route, you’ll find many parks, camps, Mojave National Preserve, and Las Vegas. 

The little town of Escalante is surrounded by five great national parks of Utah and many recreational areas and national monuments.

You could do day trips to national parks but there are many incredible hikes around Escalante to slot canyons, waterfall trails, and natural formations .

You could easily spend 10 days in Escalante and still have many hikes remaining to be explored.

You would definitely want to do day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park , Burr Trail, Capitol Reef National Park, Dixie Forest, and Arches National Park . 

1640 miles.

10 days will be a reasonable amount of time for this round trip.

Planning a Southwest road trip soon and eager to keep planning?

You can browse all of our USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 50+ Road Trip Essentials You Need
• 3 Days in Las Vegas: The Perfect Weekend in Vegas Itinerary
• 9 Best Things to Do in Page, AZ (+ Nearby!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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The Ultimate USA Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

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The American Southwest is one of the best places for a road trip with its epic red rock scenery, long empty roads, and numerous national parks.

Our Southwest road trip focused on nature (with a fun night in Las Vegas at the end) and was one of our favourite travel experiences.

We hiked through freezing rivers and vibrant slot canyons, gazed into the depths of the Grand Canyon and out at the otherworldly hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, and were constantly in awe of the magnificent landscapes.

In this post, I share our detailed Southwest road trip itinerary with ideas for trips of 5 to 10+ days. I also include a map, tips on making the most of your trip, and suggestions on where to stay.

Our Southwest USA Road Trip at a Glance

Other southwest road trip ideas, tips for a southwest road trip, map of our usa southwest road trip, best southwest road trip itinerary, more usa posts.

Here’s where we visited on our Southwest road trip, which starts and ends in Las Vegas and includes three states and three national parks.

• Zion National Park, Utah – Stay at Cable Mountain Lodge in Springdale.
• Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah – Day trip from Zion.
• Page, Arizona – Stay at an Airbnb .
• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – Stay at Thunderbird Lodge on South Rim.
• Sedona, Arizona – Stay at Wilde Resort .
• Las Vegas, Nevada – Stay at Bellagio Hotel .

Back to Contents

We had 18 days for our Southwest trip and travelled at a leisurely pace with a week each in Zion and Sedona.

As most people don’t have that long, here are my itinerary suggestions for various lengths of time.

All start and end in Las Vegas, which is convenient for the route and often has the cheapest flights and rental cars in the area.

5 Day Southwest Road Trip

• Zion National Park – 2 nights
• Page – 1 night
• Grand Canyon National Park – 1 night
• Las Vegas – 1 night

If you only have a short trip, you can still see many highlights on this Southwest road trip loop from Las Vegas.

This route is 692 miles and involves 12 hours of driving. Most driving days are 2-3 hours long with one longer 4+ hour journey on the last day.

If you don’t want to visit Antelope Canyon or prefer to do a long hike into Grand Canyon, skip the night in Page (you’ll still pass through) and add an extra night in Grand Canyon.

7 Day Southwest Road Trip

• Zion National Park – 3 nights (including a day trip to Bryce Canyon NP)
• Grand Canyon National Park – 2 nights

This 1 week road trip from Las Vegas follows the same route as the 5 day trip but at a more relaxed pace.

With an extra night in Zion, you can spent one day in Bryce Canyon NP on a day trip.

An extra night in Grand Canyon means you’ll have time to do a longer hike into the canyon.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip

• Zion National Park – 4 nights (including a day trip to Bryce Canyon NP)
• Sedona, Arizona – 2 nights

If you have 9 or 10 days for your American Southwest road trip, you can follow our complete itinerary.

This route is 975 miles and involves 18 hours of driving.

As above, most driving days are 2-3 hours long with one longer 4+ hour journey on the last day. The Zion to Bryce Canyon day trip is 1 hour 45 mins each way plus driving in the park.

If you only have 9 nights, reduce your Zion stay to 3 nights or skip Page.

California Add-On

If you are on a longer trip, you could add on more Utah National Parks ( Arches , Capitol Reef , and Canyonlands ), which we’d love to do next time.

Or you could start and/or end your trip in California, which is not far from Las Vegas.

We started our trip in California and ended in Las Vegas. We flew into Los Angeles, travelled around Southern California, and eventually drove from Death Valley National Park to Zion (a 5-hour drive) for the start of the Southwest portion of our road trip.

Some of our favourite places in California that work well with this trip are:

• Death Valley National Park – We used Beatty, Nevada as our base, which is 2 hours from Las Vegas.
• Joshua Tree National Park – 3.5 hours from Las Vegas.
• Palm Springs – 4 hours from Las Vegas, 50 minutes from Joshua Tree.

Read our post on the best things to do in Southern California for more tips.

A good route for this extended Southwest national park road trip would be Los Angeles – Joshua Tree – Death Valley – Zion and continue with the itineraries above.

• Rental Car – We use Rental Cars to find the best deals. Picking up your car from Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas is the most convenient location for this route. Or in Los Angeles, if you are starting in California.
• Google Maps – We used this app for all our directions. Make sure to save the area you’ll be visiting offline, as there isn’t always mobile signal.
• Time Zones – Keep in mind that you change time zones when crossing between California/Nevada (Pacific Time) and Utah (Mountain Time). So when you drive from Las Vegas to Zion the time will move one hour ahead. Arizona is more complicated. It’s in Mountain Time but does not observe daylight saving time like Utah, so from mid-March to early November it’s the same as Pacific Time. In winter, it’s the same as Utah.
• America the Beautiful Pass – As this route covers at least three national parks, it’s worth buying the America the Beautiful annual pass for $80. You only need one as it’s valid for everyone in your vehicle. Buy it in advance from REI to save time or get one from the first park you visit. Available for domestic and international visitors.
• AllTrails+ Subscription – The AllTrails app is a fantastic resource that we use to find hiking trails around the world. We used it a lot on this trip and upgraded to the AllTrails+ annual plan so that we could save trail maps offline. This prevented us from getting lost on many occasions, so I highly recommend it.
• Best Time of Year – If you can, avoid doing this trip in the summer when it’ll be busy and very hot. Spring and autumn are better for mild weather and lower crowds. Our trip was in February and we loved this quieter and cheaper time of year. Yes, we had some snow, but with the right clothes, hiking was comfortable. Some places like Zion and Las Vegas were sunny and mild.

Zion National Park, Utah

Las Vegas to Springdale Drive: 2.5 hours / 160 miles (257 km) Note: Utah is one hour ahead of Nevada.

The Journey to Zion

This Southwest road trip loop starts and ends in Las Vegas. The most convenient place to pick up your rental car is Harry Reid International Airport/LAS (previously called McCarran Airport) if you fly in.

The journey to Zion National Park takes under three hours, so if you arrive early and have the energy, you could stop on the way at Valley of Fire State Park .

The park looks gorgeous with massive red sandstone formations. On a quick stop, you could drive scenic White Domes Road and hike the unique but easy Fire Wave Trail (allow 40 minutes).

Sadly, we didn’t have the energy for the park as we had driven from Death Valley , but we will return.

Once you enter Utah, the scenery transforms with bright orange dirt and red mountains. The closer you get to Zion, the more spectacular it is.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the US and for good reason—it is absolutely spectacular!

It’s like a cross between the desert scenery of Death Valley or Joshua Tree (red rocks and cacti) and the epic scale of Yosemite with soaring rugged mountains.

Zion is greener than the desert parks, though, and we loved the combination of red cliffs and evergreen forest, all against the big blue skies.

The highlight of the park is Zion Canyon, which was carved by the Virgin River leaving sheer walls of colourful Navajo sandstone towering up to 3000 feet above the river.

Here are a few things to know about Zion:

• Zion Canyon is the main area – The scenic drive through it only takes about 20 minutes (longer on the shuttle), but there are many hikes along the way.
• It’s crowded – The park has become very popular so expect trails to be crowded (an early start is a good idea). Avoid the summer if possible. In February, it was fairly quiet.
• You may need to use the shuttle – For most of the year, you can’t drive into Zion Canyon and must take the free shuttle bus . From December to February (except for holidays), the shuttle doesn’t run, so we were able to drive in, which made our visit easier.
• You need a permit to hike Angels Landing – Zion’s most notorious trail now requires a permit. You can enter a lottery a few months in advance or the day before. See the Zion NP website for details.

These are our favourite things to do in Zion:

• The Narrows – Hiking in the river through a stunning red rock canyon is one of our favourite ever experiences. With the right gear, you can even hike it in winter and avoid the crowds. See my guide to hiking the Zion Narrows in winter for everything you need to know.
• Canyon Overlook Trail – Don’t miss this fairly easy, one-mile return trail with spectacular views 1000 feet above Zion Canyon. It’s in the east side of the park not on the shuttle route. Go early to get parking.
• West Rim Trail – Angels Landing requires a permit and looks absolutely terrifying. We skipped it, but it’s still worth hiking up the West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout (4.2 miles return), where the scary part starts. You don’t need a permit for this section and you’ll still have gorgeous views. Even better, continue along the West Rim Trail as far as you like for more views and solitude.
• Riverside Dining at Zion Canyon Brew Pub – A burger and beer in the sun by the river is just what you need after a strenuous hike.

See our guide to Zion National Park in winter for details on our favourite hikes and more tips.

Where to Stay for Zion National Park

Zion National Park is very accessible as it’s next to the small outdoorsy town of Springdale.

There’s one hotel in the park—Zion Lodge—but it’s expensive. When the shuttle is running, it might be worth staying here to be able to walk to some trails, but we felt Springdale was close enough.

We stayed at Cable Mountain Lodge , which has a superb location next to the park’s entrance. We often walked or ran into the park along the Pa’rus and Watchman trails.

The mountain views are stunning, there’s a pool and hot tub, and it’s right on the river (with chairs to enjoy on the beach).

All rooms have kitchenettes, so they are ideal for families and those who want to self-cater.

We booked the Luxury Suite, which I wouldn’t describe as luxurious, but it was comfortable and we appreciated having a separate bedroom. Ask for a second-floor suite for the best mountain views.

Check prices for Cable Mountain Lodge here.

Or search for more accommodation in Springdale here.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Springdale to Bryce Canyon Drive (Each Way): 1 hour 45 mins / 85 miles (137 km)

While you could add a night near Bryce Canyon National Park to this road trip, we did a day trip from Zion to avoid changing hotels.

I highly recommend visiting Bryce—it feels different from Zion with the unique Bryce Amphitheater filled with eroded spires of rock called hoodoos.

See our one day in Bryce Canyon itinerary for everything we did.

Bear in mind that Bryce Canyon is at a much higher elevation than Zion (8000 feet vs 4000 feet), so it will be colder, especially in winter. On our visit in February, it was 14ºF (-10ºC)!

We loved seeing the park sprinkled with snow, and with plenty of layers, we were warm enough to hike. Kahtoola Microspikes for our shoes were useful on some icy sections of trails.

On a Bryce day trip, we enjoyed the scenery at various drive-up viewpoints including Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point.

Our highlight was hiking into the canyon for a closer look at the hoodoos on a variation of the Queen’s Garden/ Navajo Loop Trail .

We parked at Sunset Point, walked along the rim to Sunrise Point, and then headed down the Queen’s Garden Trail (the easiest trail down).

We added on a short section of the Peekaboo Trail (you could do the full loop), then climbed back out on the Two Bridges Trail.

This 4.5-mile loop took us 2.5 hours, but you can make it shorter or longer. It’s a special trail that’s worth the moderate effort.

Page, Arizona

Springdale to Page Drive: 2 hours 15 mins / 117 miles (188 km) Note: During daylight saving time (summer), Arizona is one hour behind Utah. In winter, it’s the same time.

We reluctantly left Utah behind (we will return!) for the fairly short drive to Page in Arizona. On the way you pass through the beautiful east side of Zion NP.

We didn’t make many stops on the way except for the Wahweap Overlook on the edge of Page for a look at Lake Powell , a huge manmade reservoir on the Colorado River.

Page is a small town surrounded by desert. Honestly, after Zion, we didn’t find it that exciting. I think it’d be better in the warmer months when you can swim and kayak in the lake.

There are a few beautiful sights that make Page a popular stop on a Southwest road trip.

If you don’t want to visit Antelope Canyon and have limited time, you could just make a quick stop in Page on your way to the Grand Canyon .

Horseshoe Bend

Page’s easiest attraction to visit is Horseshoe Bend , a viewpoint of a meander in the Colorado River that was made famous by Instagram.

There’s a $10 fee to park at the Horseshoe Bend Overlook Parking Lot. From here it’s a 1.5-mile return walk, which took us about 10 minutes each way to the viewpoint. Be prepared for heat in the warmer months.

It is a beautiful view, but the crowds were overwhelming.

It’s also tricky to choose the right time for photography. Sunrise and sunset can be stunning, but to see the sandstone cliffs lit up, you’ll need to visit at midday (not advised in summer).

We went at 9am (two hours after sunrise in February) and it was still mostly in shadow.

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is Page’s biggest draw. These series of slot canyons are on Navajo land just outside town and feature incredible colours and swirling rock formations.

You can only visit on a guided tour and advance bookings are essential.

The most popular and expensive tour is to Upper Antelope Canyon , which features light beams at midday from April to September. Tours at peak times sell out months in advance.

Lower Antelope Canyon is a little quieter but more challenging to experience (you have to climb down ladders).

As both slot canyons have become incredibly busy and must be booked far in advance, we decided on the newest canyon, Antelope Canyon X .

This is much easier to get a booking for and is cheaper than the others, but on a holiday weekend, it still felt very busy to us. Lower and Upper Canyons look much worse, though.

Whichever canyon you choose, don’t expect a peaceful experience, but it is worth it.

Antelope Canyon X is the most beautiful slot canyon we’ve seen. The narrow canyon walls tower above you in vibrant shades of red and orange, the ripples and swirls created by millions of years of flood erosion.

On the 1.5-hour tour, you visit two short canyons, both with different shapes. The walk down is easy, but there’s a slight incline on the way out. We didn’t find it at all difficult.

Where to Stay in Page

We stayed in this two-bedroom Airbnb house in a residential area of Page. It was comfortable, well-equipped, and a short drive to all the local attractions.

Search here for hotels and motels in Page .

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Page to Grand Canyon Village Drive: 2 hours 25 mins / 133 miles (214 km)

The Grand Canyon is, of course, a Southwest must see. The immense canyon was formed by the Colorado River and is 277 miles long and up to a mile deep.

The South Rim is the most visited part of Grand Canyon National Park, and this is where we went as the quieter North Rim is closed in winter.

We had 24 hours in the park and found that a good amount of time. With an extra night, you could do a longer hike, though.

Desert View Drive

From Page, it’s an easy two-hour drive to the park’s east entrance at Desert View , where you can start the scenic Desert View Drive .

There are many easy viewpoints you can stop at on the way to peer into the canyon. Our highlights were Navajo Point and Lipan Point .

Our absolute favourite viewpoint was at Shoshone Point , but it requires a 20-minute walk each way (2.3 miles return). This is not marked on the park map (find it on Google Maps), so it’s much quieter—we had it to ourselves.

At the end of the road, you reach Grand Canyon Village , where the visitor centre and accommodation are located.

Hermit Road

From the village, you can continue to more viewpoints on Hermit Road. Note that from March to November you can only access this road by shuttle bus .

We were able to drive and stopped at Hopi Point and Mohave Point (our favourite). On a weekday winter morning, we found it quieter here than on Desert View Drive.

You can also walk a section of the rim at any point (the shuttle makes it easier to do a one-way hike).

South Kaibab Trail

The Grand Canyon is set up for cars, and you can easily visit many vistas without walking more than a few feet.

But our favourite experience was walking into the canyon. If you are very adventurous, you can walk all the way to the river, but this requires an overnight stay at the bottom (camping or Phantom Ranch ) and is not recommended in summer.

There’s no need to go all the way down to enjoy stunning views, though.

We hiked the South Kaibab Trail from Pipe Creek Vista to Ooh Aah Point , a 3.4-mile round trip (1.8 miles in the canyon), which took 1.5 hours with 689 feet of elevation gain.

The South Kaibab Trailhead is located on Yaki Point Rd, which is closed to private vehicles. You can take the shuttle, or as we did, park at Pipe Creek Vista and walk 15 minutes on an easy trail on the edge of the rim.

We started at 7.30am and it was so lovely to enjoy the canyon in peace on our way down. It was busier on the way up, so I recommend an even earlier start.

For an extra 3 miles return, you could continue down to Cedar Ridge (I wish we’d done this). Just make sure to remember it’s a lot harder to hike back up!

Where to Stay for Grand Canyon National Park

We chose to stay in Grand Canyon Village within the park so we could get an early start. The park lodges book up early, and the only one with availability was Thunderbird Lodge .

It has a fantastic location on the edge of the South Rim close to Bright Angel Trailhead, but it’s basic motel accommodation at high prices. We didn’t have a view on our ground floor canyon side room (request a higher floor), and we had to wait 90 minutes to check in.

If you manage your expectations, it’s fine for a night, but if you want higher quality accommodation, book far ahead (up to a year) for El Tovar or Bright Angel lodges instead.

Alternatively, you could stay 15 minutes outside the park in Tusayan. Search for Tusayan hotels here .

Sedona, Arizona

Grand Canyon to Sedona Drive: 2 hours / 113 miles (182 km)

We drove from Grand Canyon to Sedona via Flagstaff and the winding, very scenic Oak Creek Canyon .

Sedona feels different from anywhere else on this road trip. It has a small town feel and is surrounded by vivid red sandstone towers and buttes that look especially gorgeous in the golden light of early morning or late afternoon.

While there are definite desert vibes, it’s by no means barren with plenty of greenery from cypress, juniper, and pine trees.

Many people come here for the spa resorts or spiritual energy (it’s home to sacred vortexes), but for us, Sedona was all about hiking.

There are over 200 trails within a 20-minute drive of town, and we enjoyed every one we did, although we did find the trails fairly busy (and parking is often an issue).

The America the Beautiful NPS annual pass comes in useful for many of the trails in Sedona as they are in the Coconino National Forest. Other areas may have separate fees.

Our top three hikes in Sedona were:

• Soldier Pass and Brins Mesa Loop – If you start this 5-mile loop at Jordan Road Trailhead early, you’ll reach Seven Sacred Pools before the crowds. The rest of the hike is just as awe-inspiring.
• Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock Loop – An easy but rewarding 3.7-mile loop around impressive rock formations including Bell Rock (which you can climb).
• Fay Canyon – A gentle 2.3-mile out-and-back walk into a lush green canyon beneath towering red cliffs. It’s worth scrambling up the rocks at the end for a panoramic view.

See our detailed guide to the best easy hikes in Sedona for more ideas and tips.

Where to Stay in Sedona, Arizona

We stayed in West Sedona, which is quieter and cheaper than Uptown Sedona but close to many trails.

Wilde Resort and Spa is near a busy road, but the grounds are beautiful. There’s a heated pool (warm enough for me to swim in the snow!), two hot tubs, and plenty of comfortable seating around firepits.

Rooms are stylish and comfortable. Try to get one with a mountain view.

Check prices for Wilde Resort here or search for more hotels in Sedona here .

Las Vegas, Nevada

Sedona to Las Vegas Drive: 4.5 hours / 280 miles (450 km) Note: Nevada is one hour behind Arizona in winter. During daylight saving time, the time is the same in both states.

It’s a fairly long drive to Las Vegas. We didn’t make any major stops, but you do pass the Hoover Dam , where you could stop to walk over it or sign up for a tour at the visitor centre.

After a month in national parks, Las Vegas came as a shock with the neon lights, noise, and crowds of the Strip. Simon loved the pure tackiness of it all, while I suffered sensory overload.

We spent the last night of our road trip drinking cocktails in the hotel pool (it was so much hotter in Las Vegas) and wandering through casinos (the Venetian’s canal is worth seeing).

We won money on the slot machines then promptly lost it at the blackjack table, but Simon proudly made it all back (and more) in the Bellagio’s poker room.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

With just one night in Las Vegas, we wanted to make the most of it, so we stayed at the iconic Bellagio Hotel and had no regrets.

The heated pool was great for relaxing (if busy), and the view from our Fountain View King Room was incredible.

We loved being able to watch the extravagant Bellagio Water Show from the comfort of our room—more than 1000 fountains sway and soar to music and lights.

Explore more beautiful US national parks in our other guides:

• Zion National Park in Winter: Best Hikes and Tips
• Hiking the Zion Narrows in Winter: A Beginner’s Guide
• One Day in Bryce Canyon: A Perfect Day Trip from Zion
• 15 Incredible Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
• 14 Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
• The Best 3 Day Yosemite National Park Itinerary
• 23 Best Things to Do in Southern California
• 23 Unmissable Things to Do in Big Island, Hawaii  (including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park)
• 25 Best Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii  (including Haleakalā National Park)

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TWO WORLDS TREASURES

Explore Texas & beyond from Dallas/Ft. Worth

The Ultimate Southwest Road Trip Itinerary: 13 Days, 5 National Parks, 3 National Monuments, and more.

Our first southwest road trip in the summer was when we did our National Parks hopping for the first time. We traveled west from North Texas to New Mexico, Arizona, up to Colorado (a bit of West region), and back to New Mexico again before we headed home.

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During this road trip to the southwest from Texas, we visited 5 National Parks and 3 National Monuments, as well as three museums and other fantastic places. All in 13 days.

Sounds crazy and ambitious, huh? But I tell you, it was one of the very memorable vacations for us. And no, it’s not ‘been there done that’ kind of a holiday. Trust me.

Below, you will find the best places during southwest road trip that you need to put in your itinerary. As always, we started from North Texas, and you can adjust this itinerary from where you will begin.  

Southwest Road Trip: Parks Hopping Itinerary

Day 1: Home (North Texas) to Whites City, NM ( 454 miles, about 7 hour. Destination is in a different time zone.)

Place Visited:

• C arlsbad Caverns National Park.  When we arrived in the afternoon, it was too late to enter the caverns from the Natural Entrance. So, we took the elevator from the Visitor Center to do the Big Room Self-Guided Trail. Then we went back in the evening for the Bat Flight Program. Too bad the park canceled it due to lightning. 

Entrance Fee:

• Free with National Park Pass, or $15 per person for 16 and older, free for 15 and younger. Valid for three days.
• Visitors have to get reservations and timed entry to enter the park.

Accommodation & Meals:

• We stayed at Rodeway Inn and ate dinner at Velvet Garter Saloon and Restaurant by the entrance. Both were pretty bad but we came for the caverns. You can stay and eat at better places in C arlsbad for an extra 30 minutes driving (one-way).
• If you’re taking your RV, check out Carlsbad RV Park & Campground in Carlsbad. We stayed there during Spring Break 2024 on our trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. It’s clean, the bathroom was spotless, and your dog stays for free with you.

Day 2: Whites City, NM to Alamogordo, NM (166 miles, about 3 hour.)

Places Visited:

• Carlsbad Caverns NP in the morning and did Natural Entrance Self-Guided Trail. However, this entrance is not for visitors with heart or respiratory conditions. The trail is extremely steep. Whether you decide to hike up or down, you gain or lose about 750 feet (229 m) – equivalent to walking up or down a 75-story building. If you arrive in the morning and everyone is in good health, enter the caverns through the Natural Entrance, explore the Big Room Trail, then take the elevator to the Visitor Center.
• N ew Mexico Museum of Space History , Alamogordo. A friend suggested this museum because she knew our son likes everything in outer space. And we didn’t disappointed. In May 2016, the Lonely Planet published a book about 50 museums around the world to blow your mind. New Mexico Museum of Space History was one of them. 
• W hite Sands National Park , Alamogordo. One of the world’s great natural wonders, where you can sled, hike, or walk on the world’s largest gypsum dunefield. The gypsum sand feels cool and don’t stick to your skin. 
• NM Museum of Space History: Adult (13-59) $8; Senior (60+), Military, NM Resident $7; Children (4-12) $6; Tots (3 and under) are free. Additional fees for feature films, planetarium shows, planetary combo, galactic combos, or universal triple.
• White Sands NP: Free with National Park Pass, or $25 per vehicle, $15 per person (per person fee is only charged if there is only one person in the vehicle), and $20 per motorcycle. Entrance fees are valid for entry for seven consecutive days from the date of purchase. Or, buy a $45 White Sands National Park Annual Pass.
• There are plenty of h otels and restaurants to choose from in the city. Some hotel fee included a snow-saucer to use when you visit the park.

Day 3: Alamogordo, NM to Tucson, AZ (349 miles, about 5 hours. Destination is in a different time zone.)

• White Sands National Park for more fun.
• The World’s Largest Pistachio Nut at McGinn’s Farm , Alamogordo. A quick stop for a roadside attraction, and of course, pistachios for snacking in the car. 
• Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona until dark. A unique park where you can see saguaro cactus. When visiting in the summer, make sure to arrive late afternoon or early in the morning. Temperature above 110ºF is normal here, and it is super dry as well.    
• Saguaro National Park is free with a National Park Pass. Or buy a vehicle weekly pass for $25, $15 for individual entrance (entering by foot or bicycle), and $20 for a motorcycle weekly pass. The entrance fee is valid for seven days for the Tucson Mountain District (West) and the Rincon Mountain District (East.)
• We stayed at the Hilton Hotel near the park, and it was the cheapest hotel we had during the trip at $69/night, including tax. You can find all kinds of restaurants around the area.

Day 4: Tucson, AZ to Holbrook, AZ (237 miles, about 4.5 hours.)

• Petrified Forest National Park . A place to see petrified wood from sizes as tiny as your fingernail to as big as an old Elm tree. You will also enjoy colorful badlands and painted desert here. It is the only National Park with a section of Historic Route 66. We entered from the South End and exited through the North End when it got dark.  
• Free with National Park Pass, or $25 – auto/7-days pass; $15 – bike/person; $20 – motorcycle (flat fee).
• Choice of r oadside hotels and restaurants in Holbrook, AZ.

Day 5: Holbrook, AZ to Grand Canyon National Park, AZ (182 miles, about 3 hours.)

• Meteor Crater in Winslow, AZ (about an hour from Holbrook). It is where you can see the world’s best-preserved meteorite impact site on Earth. A spectacular result of a collision that rocked the American Southwest about 50,000 years ago with the energy of more than 20 million tons of TNT. It wasn’t in our original Southwest road trip itinerary, and we’re glad we stopped here. Too bad Meteor Crater is a private owner, so they don’t recognize your National Park Pass here.     
• South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, about 2 hours from Winslow. It is definitely a must-visit! We entered through the East Entrance. So we started our day in the park from the Desert View to the Village. I think we stopped at every viewpoint between the two places. 
• Meteor Crater: – Adults (13-59) $27.00, Seniors (60+) $25.00, Juniors (age 6 through 12 years) $18.00, five and under are free, Non-Active Duty U.S. Military/Veterans (with I.D.) $18.00, Active Duty U.S. Military (with I.D.) FREE.
• Grand Canyon National Park: Free with a National Park Pass or $35 for a seven-day vehicle permit, including the north and south rim.
• We stayed at Yavapai Lodge and ate at the restaurant in the Grand Canyon South Rim Village.
• Several years later, we camped at Mather Campground in the south rim.

Day 6: Explored Grand Canyon National Park.

After we picked up the Junior Ranger booklet from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, we walked to the famous Mather Point. Then, we followed the Rim Trail to Bright Angel Trailhead. After lunch, we went to Hermits Rest. We joined three Ranger Programs and ended the day by watching the sunset at Yaki Point.

We parked the car in front of our room and used the shuttle bus. I also noticed that the family who stayed in the next room brought their small grill. I saw the husband grilled hot dogs in the evening, and I think it was a good idea to save money. Food prices at the Village are not cheap. Expenses significantly increase when there are four adults and two children in a family like them. And not to mention if you stay more than two nights.  

Day 7: Grand Canyon NP, AZ to Page, AZ (131 miles, about 2.5 hours.)

• G rand Canyon in the morning. Before leaving for our next destination on this Southwest road trip, we hiked to Ooh Aah Point at the South Kaibab Trailhead. I highly recommend you to do this hike. Views were spectacular, and the weather in the morning was pleasant. Going up is not as easy as going down, but children will love their times here.    
• Antelope Canyon in Page. You must book your ticket in advance to tour the Antelope Canyon. Page has tons of tourists from all over the world. 
• The more famous Antelope Upper Canyon Tour prices are $85 for adults (8 & older) and $75 for children (0-7). There is an additional $8 Navajo Park Fee for those aged eight and above, plus surcharges. Prices for visiting at noon from April to September are more. 
• Page is a vacation destination with Lake Powell. There are lots of h otels and restaurants to choose from.

Day 8: Page, AZ to Mesa Verde, CO (245 miles, about 4 hours.)

• Horseshoe Bend Overlook, Page. We stopped at this famous place before we continued to Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. It’s beautiful nature that you shouldn’t skip during your road trip to the Southwest. 
• The Four Corners , Teec Nos Pos, AZ. You don’t need to make a special trip here unless you drive through this area during your Southwest road trip.
• Mesa Verde National Park, CO. The cliff dwellings in the park are fantastic. You must do at least one of the house tours and buy the tickets right when you arrive at the Visitor Center. That’s what we did when we got there in the afternoon. We booked house tour tickets for the next day. After looking through the exhibit, we drove to Mesa Top Loop Road and stopped at several viewpoints. It took an hour to get there from the Visitor Center.
• Horseshoe Bend Overlook is free. However, you must pay for parking now. $5 – motorcycle, $10 – passenger vehicles (incl. RV and motorhome), and prices are subject to change without notice. 
• The Four Corners is $8 per person. It is a Navajo Tribal Park, so National Park Passes are unacceptable. Only pay with a credit card. 
• Mesa Verde NP: Free with National Park Pass; or Private vehicles (May 1 – Oct. 22) $30, Oct. 23 – April 30 $20; Motorcycle (May 1 – Oct. 22) $25, Oct. 23 – April 30 $15; per person (May 1 – Oct. 22) $15, Oct. 23 – Dec. 31 $15. Prices are good for seven days.
• We stayed at Far View Lodge in Mesa Verde National Park. No TVs. It’s peaceful in the evening. We ate at restaurants in the park.

Day 9: Explored Mesa Verde National Park.

Our day in the park starts with a one-hour, ranger-guided tour to Cliff Palace. It is the largest cliff dwelling in the park. Then, we hiked the Soda Canyon Overlook Trails, which location is also in the Cliff Palace Loop.

From here, we visited Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum and Spruce Tree House, just before the Mesa Top Loop. Spruce Tree is a self-guided tour, but today it is closed for the foreseeable future due to safety concerns related to rock falls.

Before returning to our lodge, we drove the Mesa Top Loop again to visit places we didn’t see the day before. Then, we ended the day at the Far View Sites.

Day 10: Mesa Verde, CO to Santa Fe, NM (294 miles, about 5 hours.)

• Before we left for New Mexico, we went to Wetherill Mesa on the other side of the Park. We did a self-guiding tour of the Step House.
• We arrived late afternoon in Santa Fe and browsed the downtown area to get a picture of the city. Beautiful place.
• Lots of hotels and restaurants that will match your budget in S anta Fe .

Day 11: Santa Fe, NM to Los Alamos, NM (33.8 miles, about 40 min.)

• Loretto Chapel , Santa Fe. Famous for its miraculous staircase that has no visible means of support. Loretto Chapel is a beautiful addition to your Southwest road trip. We arrived before the opening hours to avoid crowds. Check their website before your visit because this beautiful chapel is a favorite wedding venue. If time permits, visit the other two old churches in Santa Fe .
• Canyon Road in Santa Fe. Not too far from Loretto Chapel, Canyon Road is dedicated to the country’s finest art. Enjoy a pleasant stroll while admiring art pieces created by artists from all over the U.S. and the world. Besides art galleries, the street is also home to Santa Fe’s finest jewelry and dining establishments. 
• Bandelier National Monument, Los Alamos. An incredible place where you can walk through the archeological sites and climb into cavates (small human-carved alcoves). You can also climb to the Alcove House , located 140 feet above the floor of Frijoles Canyon. There will be four wooden ladders and several stone stairs that you must climb to reach the house. I didn’t touch my camera at all when we climbed the ladders. Too scary to take pictures.  
• Loretto Chapel is $5/person, children six and under are free.
• Bandelier NM: Free with National Park Pass; or $25 – private vehicle; $15 – individual permit; $20 – motorcycle. The permit is good for seven days.
• We moved to Albuquerque to get closer to the places we visited the next day. Again, there are lots of h otels and restaurants that will match your budget. In Santa Fe, we had lunch at  Cowgirl BBQ .

Day 12: Santa Fe, NM to Albuquerque, NM (64 miles, about one hour.)

• Petroglyph National Monument. If your children like history, this is a place to learn about Native Americans and Spanish settlers from 400-700 years ago. Our son had fun finding petroglyphs on volcanic rocks while doing his Junior Ranger Program here.
• Explora, the science center, and the children’s museum. We had fun exploring this museum, which is full of hands-on activities. If only our local Children and Science Museum like Explora.
• New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. Like Explora, you can’t miss this museum while in Albuquerque. You will take a journey through billions of years of New Mexico’s natural history, watching how scientists extract dinosaur fossils from the rock matrix, exploring the night sky of New Mexico, and so much more. And this museum is located right across from the Explora.
• Petroglyph NM: Free with paid parking ($1 weekdays, $2 weekends).
• Explora: Free with your museum membership card (check with Explora first); or Children (ages 1-11): $7, Adults (ages 12-64): $11, Seniors (age 65+, with ID): $8, Students or Military (with ID): $8 .
• NM Museum of Natural History and Science: Free with your museum membership card (check with the museum first); or adults (18-59) – $8, seniors (60+) – $7, youth (13-17) $7, children (3-12) – $5. Tots (2 & under) are free.

Day 13: Albuquerque, NM to home in North Texas (644 miles, about 9.30 hours. Destination is in a different time zone.)

General tip :

• We bought National Park Pass for the trip which was also good for National Monument. (Cost $80).
• Booked hotels in advance, especially for Grand Canyon NP.
• Found information online, travel blogs, from magazines, and friends who’d been to these places or live around the area.

Thank you for sharing this:

Umiko Buhl is a travel blogger and the founder of Two Worlds Treasures. She travels around Texas to neighboring states and around the country with her family and dog from their family home in the south of Dallas/Fort Worth. Originally from Indonesia, she tries to go home every 2-3 years to spend time with her families and friends while exploring Indonesia. Her mission is to share her honest reviews of places she visited.

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39 comments.

This sounds like a great road trip in the southwest. You sure did see a lot in 13 days. But I can see why the trip was memorable. You have added a few National Parks to my list for when we are in that area next. We did not book a slot in advance for Antelope Canyon so missed out on that treat. A good reason to go back.

Antelope Canyon is worldly famous now. It’s getting harder to get a spot. So, a better planning for next visit.

Wow! You really did pack SO MUCH into your 13-day Southwest itinerary! And, as always, you’ve provided such thorough information as well. I’ve managed to hit a few of these places (the beautiful Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Saguaro National Park, and the Petrified Forest), but there’s still so much to see of the incredible geological diversity in these regions of the US. I am keen to head to Horseshoe Bend and White Sands National Monument — especially after reading your post. Thanks for sharing!

Friends always thought we’re crazy to do all that in 13 days. But, we’re not the type who likes to stay or swim in the hotel during vacation. I will go back again and again to this region since there are so much to see and do!

Can you belivebit people travel the world to find the worlds wonders and it is right here in the USA. I need to make this a new aroundbtge USA trip soon.

Haha… You got it right!

Have always been amazed by the sheer range and beauty of the National Parks of USA. The parks of the Southwest all seem to have a wild sort of beauty that looks so spectacular. You must have had a great experience visiting these Parks. I have read a lot about Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon, but many of the others are relatively lesser known gems.

It still amazes me until today, Sandy. I still want to revisit those parks, again and again. Hope one day you will get a chance to visit these parks.

This looks like a great road trip. I love the US National parks but I haven’t been to any of them in the south west. I’m keeping this itinerary because we may be visiting the US again next year.

I’m glad you found this itinerary helpful. Hope it will help you a lot for your next visit.

Great post! I know so little about National Parks up north and love that you explore them all so thoroughly. The White Sands National Monument looks stunning! Was it like silicon? So much rock, canyons and cacti. Sights I am so not use to. Arizona is very high on my list to visit one day so I can see those natural folds in the canyon. what an epic journey!

Hi Amy! I’m not sure whether White Sands looks like silicon, but it didn’t stick to your body at all. There are still lots of nature in the southwest that we need to explore. I think the whole summer won’t be enough.

This is my dream vacation! I would love to take my family on this road trip. Thanks for the great itinerary – it will be so helpful!

Good! I’m glad you found it helpful!

The Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend has always been high on our list of places to stay in the USA. We don’t really have anything like this in Australia except for Uluru in the Northern Territory. Thanks for sharing this great information. Now, we just have to book flights and travel.

I hope one day you will make it to Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, like I want to visit Uluru.

I love Mesa Verde, it’s so cool. I haven’t been back in years, but I think another visit is in order. I’ve also always wanted to go to the White Sands National Park, and your pictures make me want to go even more.

I would like to go back to White Sands and Mesa Verde again, too! White Sands is fun and Mesa Verde is just different.

Very well written guide to the area. You included all the information that I could think person would need. Now I just need to go!

We’re big fans of the National Parks, so this is something we’d love to do. I’ve been to most of the Arizona places you listed (we live in Phoenix) except for Saguaro National Park. That’s on my list for this year. My boyfriend has never been to the Grand Canyon, so that might be on our list for this year too.

I wish Texas has more NP or NM like Arizona, so we can use America the Beautiful pass all the time in a year.

This is awesome. I’m dying to get out there and explore some of these areas! Saved this for future reference!

Wow! This is such a gorgeous part of our diverse landscape of the U.S. This is one area I’ve haven’t been to yet. Thanks for all the info and details! 😉

shan The How-to Guru

You are welcome! I hope you will make the trip there in the future.

Wow! So cool you were able to do such a fun road trip! I’ve been to a few of these places, now I’m inspired to visit them all! Thank you!

You are welcome!

Ah we have been to some of the same places! I loved White Sands!

White Sands was fun, but visitors have to make sure they follow the rules.

There are so many places here that I wish I visited when I was in the US. Adding to the bucketlist! Thanks so much! Looks wonderful.

I hope you can make it next time you come.

I always love your photos!

The South West is a bit far from me (we live in Canada and didn’t buy a car yet…) but if we ever do a US road trip, i’d love to visit these parks! You have such stunning wilderness in the US.

I hope one day you will make a visit there. On the other hand, visiting national parks in Canada is in our list. I wonder how many weeks do we need?

Wow, this trip looks awesome! The itinerary is so helpful too because I wouldn’t even know where to begin. I’d love to do this though!

Thank you! I hope it will help you when it’s time to make the trip there.

This is my dream roadtrip! You’ve been to some of the National Parks that I’ve been waiting to visit for years! Especially the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon. Pinning this to use on my own road trip, thank you!

I might be driving this way (from the PNW to Austin) this year so I have to check some of these out. Can’t believe I was once a few miles from Antelope Canyon but missed it 🙁

Aww… Make sure you put Antelope Canyon in your `next trip.

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A two-week southwest USA road trip itinerary

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Discover the perfect 14-day/two-week southwest USA road trip itinerary – featuring National Parks, scenic drives, stunning views, famous film locations and quirky roadside attractions.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

The USA is the spiritual home of the road trip. Think long straight roads disappearing over the horizon, roadside diners and quirky motels. And probably the most iconic US road trip destination is the southwest USA. Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, Arches National Park, Route 66 – even if you’ve never visited the southwest before you’ll still feel like you already know it from films and TV shows, from Thelma and Louise to Tombstone .

So if you want to hit the road, here’s my perfect itinerary for a two-week southwest USA road trip, taking in the highlights across five states, six national parks and something like 2000 miles – with details of what to see and where to stay along the way.

Southwest USA road trip map

A note on driving times and distances

Driving times listed are based on Google Maps estimates and don’t include stops along the way. The road conditions in the southwest vary hugely so the same mileage can take totally different amounts of time. Daily driving distance/time figures cover getting from place to place and don’t include the drives within National Parks en route.

Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas

Arrive into McCarran International Airport, which is only 15 minutes’ drive north of the city, and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel. There are a huge amount of things to see in Las Vegas and you only have a brief stop here, so choose a few of the highlights.

Don’t miss the Bellagio fountains which are illuminated at night, and catch a show on the Strip – there are usually a few different Cirque du Soleil shows as well as a mix of magic acts, music tributes and big-name artists. You will need to book ahead for really popular shows but you can bag other last-minute tickets from Tix4Tonight outlets.

Where to stay in Las Vegas: There are so many hotel options in Vegas , but as you only have one night, I’d recommend staying in the central Strip. That way you’re right at the heart of the action and don’t have to waste time in the city’s crazy traffic. Paris Las Vegas, Vdara, Caesar’s Palace, the Venetian and Flamingo are all really central – prices vary hugely though so it’s worth shopping around and being flexible about where you stay.

Day 2: Las Vegas to Zion

Spend the morning exploring Las Vegas. You can travel the world along the Strip – watch gondoliers at the Venetian, climb the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at New York New York, see the pyramids at the Luxor, visit the Bellagio’s botanical gardens and scream your head off on the rides on top of the Stratosphere.

Or you can head up to Fremont Street for a taste of Old Vegas. This historic district has retro casinos and a zipline running right down the street. You can also see vintage signs at the Neon Museum and find out about the city’s Mafia story at the Mob Museum.

After lunch, pick up a hire car (it’s worth comparing prices between picking up a car on the Strip or at the airport to find the cheapest deal) and start your southwest USA road trip. It’s a good idea to stock up on a few supplies before you leave – like water, drinks and snacks. There’s both a Walmart and a Whole Foods really close to the airport.

Then leave the city behind and take Highway 15 north for 153 miles/2.5 hours towards Zion National Park. Don’t forget when you’re planning your timings that Utah is in a different time zone to Nevada, so you will lose an hour along the way.

Total driving: 153 miles/246 kilometres – approx 2.5 hours

Where to stay in Zion: The nearest hotels to Zion are in Springdale, but for something a bit different you can camp out in style on the edge of the National Park at Under Canvas Zion *. These luxury glamping tents come with proper beds, a mix of private and shared bathrooms, and some have wood-burning stoves. The view of Zion’s red rocks are the main attraction, but there’s also a restaurant with a fire pit to toast marshmallows on.

Day 3: Zion National Park

From the camp it’s 20 miles/35 mins to the entrance of Zion National Park. Private vehicles aren’t allowed in the park from March to October, so you’ll need to leave your car at the visitor’s centre and catch the shuttle bus. If you’re reasonably fit and the weather is good, you can tackle one of Zion’s big hikes – Angels’ Landing or The Narrows .

The adventurous Angels’ Landing hike (5.4 miles/4 hours) takes you up vertigo-inducing chained paths bolted into the cliffs for spectacular views from the top. Or the Bottom Up section of the Narrows (4–10 miles) takes you along a narrow river slot canyon – you need to wade along the river bed though so it’s best done on a warm day.

For something gentler, catch the shuttle to the Emerald Pools Trail for an hour-long walk to the lower pool and another hour to the upper pool. Head back to Zion Lodge, where there’s a café and picnic area if you want to stop for lunch before catching the next shuttle.

Stop off at Weeping Rock for a short walk to the cascades, then get the shuttle to the end of the road for the two-mile-long Riverside Walk. Leave the park and make the 77-mile/1.5 hour drive to Tropic via Route 9 – the Zion–Mount Carmel scenic drive. It runs through the original 1920s tunnel and past the strange rock formations at Checkerboard Mesa.

Total driving: 97 miles/156 kilometres – approx 2 hours 5 mins

Where to stay in Tropic: Just off Scenic Byway 12, Bryce Country Cabins * in Tropic are one of the closest places to stay for Bryce Canyon. Ours was small but perfect formed, with two queen-sized beds, an en-suite bathroom and small kitchenette. With all that pine they look a bit Alpine, with heaters and blankets to keep you warm on a cold night.

If it’s sunny there are tables and chairs out the back and barbecues you can borrow if you want to cook for yourself – or The Pizza Place a few minutes away does takeaway pizzas.

Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park

Tropic is only 10 miles from the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park, so you can get there early and spend a full day exploring . Follow the 18-mile-long scenic drive around the park, starting in the Bryce Amphitheater area. Park up at Sunset Point and follow the Rim Trail for a mile along to Sunrise Point, a good place to get down into the canyon.

Get up close to the hoodoos on one of the hiking trails. The Queen’s Garden Trail from Sunrise Point is the easiest at just under two miles, or there’s the steeper 1.5-mile Navajo Loop Trail from Sunset Point. You can also combine the two into a longer route.

After your hike, drive on around the edge of the amphitheatre to the viewpoints at Inspiration Point, Bryce Point and Paria View. Then leave the Bryce Amphitheater area and head out along the road to the furthest point at the Rainbow Point viewpoint.

There are plenty of places to stop for a picnic with a great view along the way – my favourites were the arch at Natural Bridge, the two towering hoodoos at Agua Canyon and the wide views from Rainbow Point. Then leave Bryce Canyon National Park and head south down Highway 89 towards the town of Kanab (77 miles/1.5 hours).

Total driving: 87 miles/140 kilometres – approx 1 hour 40 mins

Where to stay in Kanab: You can’t really do a US road trip without spending at least one night in a proper motel. Quail Park Lodge * in Kanab looks straight out of the 1950s from outside, but inside its 13 rooms have been refurbished and updated.

The motel comes with lots of nice extras – like vintage bikes you can borrow, a pool in summer, a glass of wine on arrival, morning pastries and fruit, and free international phone calls. It’s an easy walk into town for dinner – we liked Rocking V Cafe , an art-filled space that specialises in slow food with a good range of vegan and gluten-free options.

Day 5: Best Friends Animal Society

The southwest USA is all about the natural beauty, but for something a bit different, you can spend the morning volunteering with animals at Best Friends Animal Society . Their base at Angel Canyon is just 10 minutes outside of Kanab, and is the biggest no-kill animal sanctuary in the US with over 1600 cats, dogs, pigs, rabbits, horses and parrots on site.

You can choose which animals to spend time with. We spent our morning feeding and stroking cats but you can also socialise dogs, groom horses or even walk a potbellied pig.

After lunch at the centre, follow Highway 89 to the east on the 80 mile/1 hour 20 min drive to Page, across the border in Arizona. Just before you get there you’ll reach Lake Powell and the spectacular Glen Canyon Dam, where there’s a visitors centre and viewpoint.

You can then either take a sunset cruise around Lake Powell or head to Horseshoe Bend – a perfect meandering arc of the Colorado River that cut its way down through the sandstone over million of years. It’s 5 miles south of Page on Highway 89, between mileposts 544 and 545, with a short sandy walk to the canyon rim and a dramatic 1000-foot drop to the river.

Total driving: 97 miles/156 kilometres – approx 1 hour 50 mins

Where to stay in Page: The Best Western View of Lake Powell Hotel * unsurprisingly has a great view of Lake Powell, and a pool and hot tub to relax in in summer. It’s fairly standard chain hotel in style but has a good location with spacious rooms and breakfast is included. Page gets busy so it’s a good idea to book well in advance. There are a few places to eat nearby – El Tapatio is recommended for its giant portions of Mexican food.

Day 6: Antelope Canyon & Monument Valley

Head 8 miles/15 mins out of Page to one of the southwest’s most recognisable spots – Antelope Canyon. This slot canyon is famous for its curving red rock walls with those super-photogenic beams of light filtering through. The only way you can visit the canyon is on a tour *, and they’re hugely popular so book as soon as you can.

There are two sections – the Upper and Lower Canyon. The Upper Canyon is where you’ll see the light beams, which are best in the mornings. But beware the canyon can get crowded, and the flood risk means that tours are often cancelled if it rains.

Carry on along Highway 98 then take the 160 north-east on the 116 mile/2 hour drive to another southwest icon – Monument Valley . North of Kayenta, huge rock buttes emerge out of miles of empty desert scrubland, coloured in vivid shades of gold, orange and pink.

They’re named after their shapes, so you can try and spot the Mittens, the Thumb and the Totem Pole. Inside the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park there’s a visitors centre and a 17-mile scenic drive which takes you through the rock formations. It’s unpaved and pretty rough, so it’s best done in a 4×4 and takes at least two hours with photo stops.

Total driving: 124 miles/200 kilometres – approx 2 hours 15 mins

Where to stay in Monument Valley: There’s not much around Monument Valley, but both The View and Goulding’s Lodge * have fantastic views of the rocks, and it’s well worth staying the night just to watch the amazing sunrises and sunsets. Both have a mix of hotel rooms and cabins, with balconies looking out over the valley, as well as camping spots and Navajo restaurants (but note that alcohol is prohibited on Navajo land).

Day 7: Arches National Park

Leave Monument Valley behind in the morning and head back into Utah, following Highway 191 to Arches National Park (151 miles/2 hours 40 mins). The park has the world’s largest concentration of rock arches, with over 2000 of all shapes and sizes.

Start your Arches exploration at Park Avenue Viewpoint, then drive to Balanced Rock, where a short circular path runs around a precariously perched rock. Then turn off towards the Windows Section of the park for the short walks to Double Arch (half a mile) and around the loop passing the North and South Windows and Turret Arch (one mile).

Drive back to the main road then take the turn off to the right towards Delicate Arch – famously pictured on Utah’s license plates. The route out to the arch is one of the best hikes in Arches National Park and covers three miles, with some steep sections along the way. It’s best done in late afternoon during the summer as there’s not a lot of shade.

Or if you’re short on time you can follow the lower one-mile path to Delicate Arch Viewpoint instead, where you get a great view of the arch across the canyon. Then drive 5 miles/20 mins to the town of Moab, where you’ll be spending the next two nights.

Total driving: 156 miles/251 kilometres – approx 3 hours

Where to stay in Moab: Moab’s a popular spot so book accommodation well in advance at weekends. The eco-friendly Moab Springs Ranch * is surrounded by trees and streams. They have two types of accommodation – studio bungalows and two/three-bedroom townhouses. And there’s a pool, hot tub and campfire. Moab’s quite sprawling though so you may have to drive to get to places to eat – the Moab Brewery is worth a visit.

Day 8: Canyonlands National Park

Take the 30 mile/35 minute drive to Moab’s other local (and less well-known) National Park – Canyonlands . The park is is divided into three sections, but if you want good views then concentrate on the Islands in the Sky district, which is the most accessible area. Stop off at the visitors centre first where there’s a short walk out to the Shafer Canyon Overlook.

Then drive on to Mesa Arch where there’s a half-mile walk out to an arch on the edge of a cliff. The road then splits – take the right fork to Upheaval Dome, where there’s one viewpoint after a mile’s walk out onto the dome and a second viewpoint a mile further on.

Then backtrack to the junction and take the left fork and follow the road out to the end at Grand View Point, stopping off at the Green River and Buck Canyon overlooks on your way for some of the park’s most spectacular views. On your way back to Moab, stop off at Dead Horse State Park, where one of the classic US road trip movies was filmed.

When Thelma and Louise drive off the edge of the Grand Canyon at the end of the film, it’s really Dead Horse Point State Park (supposedly named for a gory tale of horses being left to die of thirst on a corral above the river). Then head back to Moab for a second night.

Total driving: 70 miles/113 kilometres – approx 1.5 hours

Day 9: Mesa Verde National Park

Leave Moab behind and head south on Highway 191 – though it’s worth making a quick stop at the quirky Hole n’ the Rock along the way. About 20 mins out of town, this bizarre house has been carved out of a sold rock face. Then cross over into Colorado on the 491 and follow the road towards Mesa Verde National Park (145 miles/2 hours 50 mins).

This area was home to the Ancestral Puebloans 1000 years ago who built houses in the side of the cliffs. You can only visit most of the cliff houses on ranger-led tours. So stop off at the visitors’ centre to book an hour-long tour of either Cliff Palace, the largest cliff house, or Balcony House where you climb through tunnels and up ladders.

Then drive the winding road up to Mesa Verde’s plateau, stopping off at the overlooks on the way to take in the views. The park’s biggest concentration of sights is in the Chaplin Mesa area. Call in to the Chaplin Mesa Museum to learn about the Puebloans.

There’s also a lookout over Spruce Tree House, the best-preserved cliff house (closed to visitors after a rockfall). Then drive the six-mile Mesa Top Loop where there are stops at short walkways to pit houses, the Sun temple and great views of the cliff houses across the valley. Finally drive back to Highway 60 and 56 miles/1 hour 15 mins to Durango.

Total driving: 200 miles/322 kilometres – approx 4 hours

Where to stay in Durango: O-Bar-O Cabins was my favourite stay on this southwest USA road trip. These log cabins are 20 minutes outside of Durango in a lovely peaceful pine forest. There are nine different cabins, our Birdnest was the smallest but was beautifully designed, with a full kitchen, terrace and grill – plus a shared riverside hot tub. It’s a way from anywhere so stock up on food for the night, or head into Durango.

Day 10: Santa Fe

Head east out of Durango to Highway 160 and then travel south on the 84 along the edge of the Carson National Forest on your way to Santa Fe (212 miles/3 hours 45 mins). Then spend the afternoon exploring Santa Fe – it’s one of the oldest cities in the US which has a unique mix of Native American and Hispanic cultures.

Take a history and food walking tour * around the old town’s characteristic adobe buildings. Soak up the sunshine in the Plaza, shop for silver and turquoise Native American jewellery outside the Palace of the Governors, check out the miraculous staircase in the Gothic-style Loretto Chapel and call in at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis.

Santa Fe is a real hub for artists, and there are hundreds of studios and galleries running along the half-mile-long Canyon Road, as well as museums dedicated to folk art, Indian art and the painter Georgia O’Keefe. There’s also the trippy Meow Wolf, a immersive art experience that’s a bit like walking into a video game.

Take a walk to the city’s regenerated railroad district, where old warehouses have been converted into galleries and restaurants. And don’t miss the city’s Mexican food and margaritas – Santa Fe is justifiably famous for both.

Total driving: 212 miles/341 kilometres – approx 3 hours 45 mins

Where to stay in Santa Fe: The Old Santa Fe Inn * is classic New Mexico style with lots of dark wood, local art and big bunches of dried chilies hanging outside. We stayed in a traditional kiva room with a king-sized bed, sitting area, fireplace and jacuzzi bath.

There’s a free breakfast buffet every morning, Starbucks tea and coffee in the lobby all day, and free cookies or chips each afternoon. The hotel is a short walk from the plaza, where we headed up onto the terrace at the Rooftop Pizzeria for blue corn pizzas and local beers.

Day 11: Route 66

You can’t really have a US road trip without driving a stretch of The Mother Road – Route 66. The route’s longest driving day covers 412 miles on your way to Sedona in Arizona, where you spend the next two nights. First leave Santa Fe and head to Albuquerque where you join the I-40, the interstate which follows some of old Route 66.

There are a few good places to stop off along the way. Petrified Forest National Park is made up of fossilised trees dating back to the time of the dinosaurs. Or the Meteor Crater is the world’s best preserved meteor impact site, stretching nearly a mile across.

You can still see some of the vintage-style diners, motels and petrol stations which lined the old Route 66, like in Winslow Arizona (one for the Eagles fans). At Flagstaff, leave Route 66 and head south to Sedona on Highway 89A – the Red Rock Scenic Byway. It runs through Coconino National Forest then zig-zags down into Oak Creek Canyon with beautiful views.

Total driving: 412 miles/663 kilometres – approx 6 hours 15 mins

Where to stay in Sedona: The Sky Ranch Lodge * is a bit out of town on Airport Mesa but has spectacular panoramic views – it’s worth staying there just for the sunsets. Rooms are motel style with most having balconies and there’s a pool and jacuzzi in the gardens. There’s no restaurant at the hotel but the Mesa Grill is only a few minutes’ walk away (located inside Sedona tiny airport) and does tasty southwest dishes.

Day 12: Sedona

Spend the day exploring Sedona , a southwest town with a spiritual side. It’s said there are vortexes in the red rocks around town – sacred spots where energy flows radiate the Earth’s power. Whether you believe it or not, the rocks are spectacular to look at.

Take the seven-mile Red Rock Loop scenic drive to see the most famous vortexes: Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock. Don’t miss the unique Chapel of the Holy Cross too – a 1950s Catholic chapel that looks like a Bond villain’s lair. Or head out on a Sedona hike and visit Slide Rock State Park for swimming and sliding down an 80-metre rock chute.

There are also a few good half-day trips from Sedona, depending on what you’re interested in. There’s the ghost town of Jerome which is 28 miles away. This old copper and gold mining town was known as the ‘Wickedest Town in the West’ in the 1890s. The saloons and brothels have closed but you can still see a lot of the historic buildings.

Or the Verde Valley Wine Trail has nine different vineyards to visit. And if you don’t have time to get out to the wineries, you can also try local wines at Sedona’s Art of Wine .

Day 13: Grand Canyon

Leave Sedona and head back to Flagstaff and then travel north to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim (114 miles/2 hours 15 mins). Drive out to Desert View for that first breathtaking look down into the canyon and the watchtower observation deck. Then head on to the visitor centre where you can leave your car behind and catch the free shuttle.

There are a few different shuttle routes – the blue route takes you from the visitor centre to the village, and from there you can catch the red route, which is a loop stopping off at some of the most scenic lookout points along Hermit’s Rest Road.

There are walking trails along the rim, but it’s also worth heading down into the canyon to get a closer view of it from a different angle. There’s not enough time to make it all the way to the bottom in half a day, but you can do a shorter walk like the three-mile hike along the South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Point or the hike along the Bright Angel Trail as far as 1.5 Mile Resthouse. Then head to one of the viewpoints for that perfect Grand Canyon sunset.

Total driving: 114 miles/183 kilometres – approx 2 hours 15 mins

Where to stay at the Grand Canyon: Flagstaff is the closest place to the Grand Canyon which has a decent selection of hotels, but it’s still 90 minutes away. So we spent the night at the Bright Angel Lodge , which is right inside the park. It’s a 1930s timber lodge with a mix of hotel rooms and cabins – the cheapest options have a shared bathroom. There’s a café and a steakhouse-style restaurant on site and those amazing views just outside.

Day 14: Depart Las Vegas

Catch sunrise over the Grand Canyon before making your way back to Las Vegas. It’s a 275-mile/4.5-hour drive, so if you have an evening flight you should have time to stop off at Lake Mead along the way to see the Hoover Dam.

The dam is a seriously impressive piece of engineering at 220 metres tall and up to 200 metres thick. There’s a visitor centre where you can find out how it was built as well as taking a look at the generators. Then from the dam it’s only 30 miles/40 mins back to the airport in Las Vegas and the end of your southwest USA road trip.

Total driving: 275 miles/426 kilometres – approx 4.5 hours

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Tuesday 13th of February 2024

Hi, this is a great article! Do you think we could do this trip in August or would it be too hot? Thanks

Lucy Dodsworth

Wednesday 14th of February 2024

Thanks – it is very hot in some places on the route in August (e.g. Las Vegas is in the 40ºC/104ºF range) but other areas like Bryce Canyon are more reasonable (27ºC/78ºF) but may get some thunderstorms. It is also peak holiday season so book well ahead.

Wednesday 21st of December 2022

Wow, really amazing article. Thanks for putting this together! Would it be possible to skip Santa Fe and Albuquerque? It seems to be a very large chunk of the drive and I don't like driving that much. I'm also not very interested in Santa Fe and would rather spread out the other visits a bit. I checked and I could go from Durango to Sedona in ~6h (340 miles). Would this make sense or is there another route you would recommend? Thanks!

Wednesday 28th of December 2022

Yes of course you can definitely adapt the route – Durango to Sedona would work well.

Friday 26th of August 2022

Really fabulous read, would you know of any person who can do this trip for a solo female traveller from India I don’t want to join any Tours Groups but I’d rather do it on my own and like you I would also love to volunteer for the animals

Sunday 28th of August 2022

Hi, if you're happy driving then it shouldn't be a problem to do the trip solo.

dustin graves

Saturday 6th of August 2022

great trip however you missed the san juan skyway loop on the million dollar hwy in Colorado. its just north of your itinerary on hwy 550 heading from Durango up through Silverton and ouray on to Ridgway then around to telluride. I've been almost everywhere on that loop that you showed us but you simply missed the best part of Colorado. huge mountains and old mining towns. no point in getting that close to the san juan skyway loop and not taking it. anyways just my opinion

Monday 8th of August 2022

Hi Dustin – I didn't have time to fit it into this itinerary as there as a lot of ground to cover, but it is mentioned in my top southwest USA scenic drives post though! https://www.ontheluce.com/my-top-southwest-usa-scenic-drives/

Tuesday 26th of July 2022

I am in the middle of drafting our itinerary and this is so helpful, thank your very much! When it comes to car rental, would you say that a "normal small" car can do the job or is it best to rent a SUV? Thank you

Wednesday 27th of July 2022

Hi Delphine, we booked a normal car but ended up getting given a small SUV but think it would've been fine in a normal car other than the road around Monument Valley which we didn't want to even chance in the SUV as it was very rocky.

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The Perfect 10-Day American Southwest Road Trip Itinerary (14+ Gorgeous Desert Stops!)

Post Summary: Everything you would ever want to know about planning and executing an epic Southwest road trip itinerary.

The American Southwest.

This classic American road trip is packed full of iconic Southwest locations, Instagram-worthy stops , and incredible natural wonders.

We’d even go far enough to say that it’s a must-do for all Americans at least once in their lifetime!

Planning a route this large and complex can get a little crazy and overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate American Southwest road trip itinerary to help set your plans in motion.

We’re sharing the best route to take and even breaking it down into smaller bite-sized trips.

No matter how many days you have for your Southwest US road trip itinerary, we’re sharing how you can still have the maximum amount of fun!

The Ultimate American Southwest Road Trip

This post is a compilation of many trips we’ve taken to some of our American Southwest bucket list destinations . We’re constantly updating this post as we explore more, so keep coming back for more Southwest USA inspiration in the future!

Where Is The American Southwest?

The American Southwest area is a broad term with borders that depend on the person you are talking to!

In a large, encompassing stroke, it would cover Southern California, Southern Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and sometimes even Western Colorado.

It’s a unique area of the United States that showcases vast deserts, red rocks, cool ecological formations, and so many unique and natural landscapes.

Covering all these areas on an American Southwest road trip would require weeks off of work and tons of planning. Stay tuned as we tell you how you can break up your trip into smaller loops for a more manageable trip!

What’s The Best Way To Get Around On My Southwest Road Trip?

The best way to plan and execute a Southwest Road Trip itinerary is certainly by car. Traveling around the Southwest by car will give you the most freedom, and the ability to change plans on a whim if you feel like it! Being one of the most famous west coast road trips , you’ll want to have the freedom to change plans on a whim and drive were you wish.

Our favorite way to get around the Southwest is by renting a campervan. If you are wanting to try our van life, we recommend renting a campervan through Outdoorsy , because it’s kind of like Airbnb but for campervans! You can pick anything from Airstreams to Sprinter Vans to Vintage VW Westfalias. There are so many to choose from, and they come fully insured so you can worry less and explore more!

Finding Camping Spots In The American Southwest

Are you planning to go camping on your Southwest road trip route? Make sure you download the #1 camping app, The Dyrt ! The Dyrt is one of the best road trip planner tools , with tons of features to help you find the perfect camping spots on your trip!

The pro membership unlocks essential tools like their Road Trip Planner (to find the best campsites along your route) and the offline search features to find camping spots without cell service. Try the pro membership for 30 days free!   Click here and use the code  Mandagies  to unlock your 30-day free trial .

Where Do I Start My Southwest Road Trip?

There are many potential starting points for a southwest road trip , and we’ve created ours to be in an enormous loop so you can really start wherever is most convenient for YOU!

However, you may not have time for a mega trip like this one. That’s why we’ve split our route into many smaller routes, to target more specific areas of the American Southwest if you choose to do so.

Here are a few options below to help you pick the best southwest road trip that’s right for you!

The Utah National Parks Trip

Starting Point:  Las Vegas, Nevada.

Total Driving Time:  19 Hours there and back – 1,082 miles

Highlights include locations like Temple of the Sun and Moon, Delicate Arch , Angeles Landing hike (Zion National Park), and more!

This trip includes five US National Parks , lots of hiking, and red rock landscape.

Don’t want to drive back the way you came? Make it a loop and make your way south through Monument Valley and Page, Arizona. This way you can see Horseshoe Bend and even Antelope Canyon!

Click here to see our full detailed road trip route to all five Utah National Parks.  

The Southern California Loop

Starting Point: Los Angeles or San Diego, California

Total Driving Time:  35 hours in a loop drive – 1,200 miles total

This Southern California road trip route includes driving parts of the iconic Highway 395 route , visiting at least two US National Parks (Death Valley and Joshua Tree).

There is also a potential extension to three more (Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park)!

This trip will bring you through major cities, scorching deserts, and incredible views of the Eastern Sierras. Best driven in the springtime to avoid super-hot days, it’s an iconic area to explore in the Southwest USA.

If you are hoping to begin your southwest road trip from Los Angeles, this route is a great place to start!

The Grand Canyon / Desert Loop

Starting Point: Las Vegas, Nevada

Total Driving Time:  18 hours 30 minutes hours in a loop, 1,100 miles total

This route is perfect for lovers of the red landscape of the American Southwest.  Some of the most popular adventures in this area are road trips to the Grand Canyon, so you’re in good company if you like this southwest road trip route!

The red rocks of Valley of Fire State Park, the deep crevasses of the Grand Canyon , and amazing hikes in Sedona are any outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Driving the Grand Canyon and Desert Loop will have you spending a lot of time outside.

Make sure to know some camping essentials like where to find free camping spots , how to sleep in your car , and easy meals to make on the road !

The Mega American Southwest Road Trip

Total Driving Time:  37 hours in a loop, 2,144 miles total

***This is what we’ll be covering below. Keep reading!***

In this post, we’re going to cover a Southwest road trip route that covers every ‘major’ stop. (Note: We really can’t cover EVERY SINGLE STOP, so we’re trying out best to cover the highlights! 

Every major desert, national park, and hidden place we can think of will be included!

If you spent one day in each of these included locations, this Southwest USA trip would take you a little over two weeks.

We’re sharing the largest itinerary so that you can see all your options, and custom fit your route to however long and far you’d like to travel!

All The Best Stops On A Mega Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

Again, this American Southwest road trip guide below includes ALL the stops.

If you are hoping to break it down into a more in-depth trip around just one area, scroll back up to see examples of our bite-sized itineraries!

1. Alabama Hills

Alabama Hills Recreational Area is an area east of the Sierra Mountains in Southern California. It’s managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and its sole purpose is to be for the enjoyment of the people. Yay!

This place is chock-full of amazing rock climbing, desert hikes, interesting natural arches, and so much more. There are even free camping spots pretty much anywhere and everywhere, so you can sleep and play all in one place.

Alabama Hills is also the site for over 150 movie filming locations including American Westerns like Round-Up and The Long Rangers, and more recent films like Django Unchained and Iron Man.

Note: Alabama Hills is mainly dirt roads, so 4-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for travel.

Movie Flat Road is generally in acceptable condition for all vehicles, but take caution after heavy rainfall. The rain may cause ruts in the road or even wash it away completely. Check the weather before you venture out!

Read More: Exactly How To Find Movie Road – (That Famous Instagram Spot In Alabama Hills)

2. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is not only the largest national park in the US , but it’s also the hottest, driest, and lowest elevation one too!

Despite its morbid name, Death Valley is actually home to many species of wildflowers, desert animals, and plants that can withstand the harsh environment. The Death Valley NPS Website even has a calendar for blooming wildflowers and the best times to visit to see them.

We recommend spending a night or two in the park. You can reserve traditional camping spots at Recreation.Gov or pop into the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and ask for free backcountry roads for camping.

Highlights of Death Valley National Park:

• Badwater Basin  – The lowest point in North America.
• Zabriskie Point – Colorful hills in all directions.
• Devil’s Golf Course – Rough, rocky terrain as far as the eye can see.
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – The quintessential view people expect at Death Valley. A vast area of sand dunes as tall as 100 feet, perfect for wandering in the evening.
• The Racetrack – Death Valley’s most peculiar site. Stones seem to move and make tracks in the dirt.

Read More: 24 Hours in Death Valley – How To See Death Valley in One Day

3. Valley of Fire State Park

You thought Nevada was just casinos and bright lights? Think again!

Directly around Nevada (in all directions!) are incredible desert landscapes and opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature.

This part of the Southwest is particularly popular for rock climbers, so if you fancy that you should plan more time in your trip to hang around Las Vegas. Las Vegas actually has a large rock climbing community, so if you wanted to train for rock climbing in a controlled environment, this would be the place to try it!

Have a little bit more time? Consider spending a few extra days in Sin City! There are tons of adventurous  things to do in Las Vegas for couples , including romantic hot air balloon rides, attending shows, and experiencing some fine dining! You deserve it after all that time hanging out in the desert dirt!

One of these amazing state parks near Las Vegas is Valley of Fire State Park – an outcrop of fiery red Aztec sandstone jetting out of the earth. The park covers over 40,000 acres of land and is at its best and brightest during sunrise and sunset.

Some of the best attractions at Valley of Fire State Park include:

• Rainbow Vista – color-streaked rocks with a great view
• Atlatl Rock – ancient petroglyphs
• Elephant Rock – natural arch shaped like said animal
• Mouse Tank Road – epic road with surrounding red rocks (that road you see all over social media!)
• White Domes Trail – beautiful view, best at sunrise
• Fire Canyon/Silica Dome – great sunset views
• Arch Rock – natural arch, conveniently on the side of the road
• Fire Wave – beautiful streaks of color on a short, easy trail

If you find yourself driving through Las Vegas on your Southwest road trip, we highly recommend visiting Valley of Fire State Park! The entry fee per day is $10.00 per vehicle, and $20.00 for overnight camping.

4. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most popular Utah national parks to visit on any Southwest road trip.

This is because it’s usually the closest to any starting point you may have (especially if you’re starting in Las Vegas, Phoenix, or California).

With over 4.5 million visitors per year, there are tons of activities to do like biking, hiking, cave exploring, and camping!

Planning out your days in Zion National Park are of the utmost importance. Because cars aren’t allowed in the park, you’ll be riding around on scheduled shuttles with all the other crowds in the park.

If you are visiting during a busy season or busy time of day, it’s important to arrive early and avoid long queues for the buses.

Zion National Park HACK: If you want to hike in a location before the shuttle begins for the day, we know of friends who have rented bikes for the week in Zion.

Bikes will give you more freedom to come and go from trailheads without waiting for the busy shuttle times and dealing with crowds. You can easily rent bikes at Zion Outfitter.

Travelers Tip: Stay outside of the park at hotels in Hurricane, UT for a budget-friendly stay. You’ll need to drive into the park every day, but it’s not too far of a drive, and the views are great!

If you really want to stay closer to the park, we highly recommend booking accommodations in Springdale, Utah  at least 6 months in advance or booking your camping spots very early. Accommodations near the park fill up FAST in high season!

Best Hikes and Attractions In Zion National Park:

• Angels Landing Hike (Difficult To Challenging)
• The Narrows (Canyon hike)
• Emerald Pools Trail
• Canyon Overlook Trail
• Kolob Canyons
• Weeping Rock
• Riverside Walk
• West Rim Trail

Best (And Scariest) Hike in Zion National Park: Angels Landing

5. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is located in Utah, one of the “Mighty Five” Utah National Parks . It’s often paired with Zion National Park because of their proximity to one another.

This park is unique for its bright orange hoodoos,  which are tall skinny spires that form at the bottom of a dried up basin after thousands of years of erosion.

There are many opportunities to hike down in the basin and next to these towering hoodoos. Some of the most iconic hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park include:

• Queen’s Garden Loop  (most iconic Bryce features) – 2.6-mile loop
• Rim Trail (Best for sunrise and sunset) – entire length is 5.5-miles with multiple stopping points
• Mossy Cave Trail  – 0.9 miles out-and-back trail
• Navajo Trail  – 1.3-mile loop
• Swamp Canyon Loop – 4.1-mile loop
• Tower Bridge Trail – 3.4-mile out and back trail
• Fairyland Loop Trail – 8.0-mile loop
• Riggs Springs Loop Trail – 8.5-mile loop
• Peek-A-Boo Loop Trail – 5.5-mile loop

Because of its high elevation (8,000 to 9,000 feet depending on your location), Bryce Canyon stays cold nearly year round.

In January, temperatures barely rise above freezing at 15-37 degrees Fahrenheit, and its hottest month (July) sits between 53-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

That being said, we suggested earlier that the best time to make a southwest road trip itinerary would be between March/April or October/November. We still think this is true, but you should definitely add warm clothes to your southwest USA packing list.

If you’re packing light, here’s what we suggest you bring for warm clothes at the very minimum for visiting Bryce Canyon:

• Lightweight Down Jacket
• Thin, e-tip gloves (trust us, these are a lifesaver)
• Down-filled throw blanket

6. Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem on any adventurous southwest road trip. Located in central Utah, this park’s unique feature is a wrinkle in the earth called the “ Waterpocket Fold “, which runs north to south for nearly 100 miles.

This formation has created some interesting details in the area. Deep canyons, monoliths, and rocky reefs are waiting to be explored here!

To take your trip to the next level , we suggest reading our post about getting to Cathedral Valley to visit the Temple of The Sun And Moon . It’s a journey you won’t soon forget.

These towering twin rock monoliths are a two-hour drive down a dirt road – but well worth the detour! Just make sure to have a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, and/or very confident driving skills.

It also doesn’t hurt to stop by the ranger’s office before heading out –  the rangers can tell you about the current road conditions.

Around Cathedral Valley is also a great place to camp. BLM land surrounds most of the park, so you can find a free camping spot just outside the national park borders and wake up in the valley!

(Just remember that camping IN the park is not permitted unless you have a backcountry permit or are in a designated camping spot!)

Here are some iconic things to do in Cathedral Valley:

• Hike The Grand Wash
• Drive The Backroads to Cathedral Valley
• See The View At Gooseneck Overlook

In Capitol Reef National Park, you’ll get a good perspective of the landscape of the American Southwest!

READ MORE: What To Expect On Your Trip To Capitol Reef National Park

7. Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is the sister park to Arches National Park . Canyonlands and Arches are right next to one another, so travelers usually come to the Moab area and visit both parks in one trip.

This park is divided up into three sections: The Island In the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze areas. Island In The Sky is the most accessible for all cars, has amenities like bathrooms and water, and has some of the park’s best overlooks.

If you’re hoping to spend one day in Canyonlands, we suggest coming to the Island In The Sky and leaving the other sections for a longer trip. There is plenty to see in this section, with tons of overlooks, short hikes, and attractions.

This part also includes the famous Mesa Arch , which looks incredible during sunrise!

It’s also important to note that there is little if any cell service in the park. Make sure to pick up a park map, or download an offline map from Google to help you get around.

Camping? Moab can be a good home base if you’re searching for an Airbnb or a hotel. However, if you want to rough it a little bit, there is tons of BLM land around the area where you can camp for free!

Read our complete guide to finding the perfect free camping spot in the USA . We’re sharing researching tips, best practices and so much more!

Highlights of Canyonlands (Must-See Spots In The Park):

• Candlestick Tower
• Grand View Point
• Green River Overlook
• Shafer Canyon Overlook
• Upheaval Dome
• Buck Canyon Overlook
• Dead Horse Point (Outside of the park but accessible from the same main road!)

Click here to find the best spot to watch the sunset in Canyonlands National Park!

8. Arches National Park

Arches National Park is one of the most visited of the “Mighty Five” Utah national parks. We also think it’s an essential stop on your Southwest road trip itinerary!

Here, you can experience iconic American landmarks like Delicate Arch, Double Arch, and the Windows Loop.

It’s possible to experience this park’s main attractions in a day, and the highway is set up to show you all the highlights. We wrote a post about the 10 best hikes to take in Arches National Park, and they are easily accessible and doable in 24 hours!

We suggest coming to this park early – the entrance line can get extremely long starting at 9:00 am!

Best Hikes In Arches National Park (See here for the complete list!) :

• Delicate Arch (least crowded during sunrise)
• Fiery Furnace (permit required)
• Double Arch
• Windows Loop
• Devil’s Garden Loop

Read More: How To Spend One Day In Arches National Park

9. Monument Valley

Monument Valley will be nearly everyone’s iconic assumption of what the landscape of the American Southwest looks like.

Want to reach that famous Forrest Gump Road? It’s a bit outside the official Oljato-Monument Valley area.

Starting from the town of Mexican Hat, drive west on Highway 163 towards Monument Valley to catch a glimpse of the towering pinnacles in the distance.

There are a few spots to pull over and snap a few pics of the road. Just be sure to look out for traffic both ways!

Camping Tip: There is BLM land all around Monument Valley, but do your research before heading out to search for your next spot. Read up on any specific rules for Native American reservation land, and what is allowed in these specific areas.

Read More:  Exactly How To Find Free Camping In The USA

10. Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon

Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are often coupled together because of how close they are to one another!

The town of Page was just a quick stop on our Southwest Road trip itinerary, but if you’re looking to spend more time here, check out these amazing things to do in Page, Arizona !

It’s important to note the time zone change from Page, Arizona. It’s very confusing – especially if you have tours reserved in the area.

Be sure to confirm any scheduled events or reservations you may have. As a last resort, consider arriving an hour early (rather than being an hour late!).

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon in Page, Arizona. It’s split into two sections: “Upper Antelope Canyon” and “Lower Antelope Canyon”.

This place is growing in popularity, so it’s important to book Antelope Canyon tours online and reserve your spot in advance.

You can take a sightseeing tour, or spend a little more time in the canyon on a Photographer’s tour. The route is the same, the only difference is that the photography tour is longer.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is an extremely picturesque bend in the Colorado River, located just outside of the city of Page, Arizona.

There is lots of grief about the Horseshoe Bend area being overcrowded. Yes, in recent years this place has received a lot of social media attention, thus creating a large and fast influx of visitors before the state could build proper infrastructure.

Regardless, we still think it’s an incredible place to see with your own eyes.

We recommend coming during sunset, even though this is by far the most popular and crowded time.

Just know that you will be sharing it with a lot of other people, and arm yourself with patience and grace. And remember, they are coming to experience its beauty just like you!

11. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is the quintessential activity for any adventurous southwest road trip.

Spanning 277 miles long and 18 miles wide at some points, the Colorado River has been carving this canyon for thousands of years!

If you are looking to see the highlights of the Grand Canyon, we recommend visiting the South Rim. This area is the most accessible to all vehicles and includes campgrounds, visitors centers, and more accommodations nearby.

Here are some of the best viewpoints in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon:

• Mather Point
• Mohave Viewpoint
• Moran Point
• Desert View Point
• Yavapai Point

Want to stay longer in this amazing part of the southwest? Try planning an unforgettable trip to Havasu Falls ! This incredible backcountry area in the southwest requires permits and quite the hike in, but in the end you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful waterfall views on earth!

Read More: Experience a Grand Canyon National Park Sunset

12. Sedona, Arizona

Love hiking in the desert? This eclectic town in the middle of Red Rock State Park is a perfect place to reconnect with your mind, body, and soul.

We’ve written an incredibly in-depth guide to hikes in Sedona and what to expect on these beautiful trails!

Soldier’s Pass Trail : This hike features lots of interesting attractions. Some highlights include the Seven Sacred Pools, Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole, and cave entrances.

Cathedral Rock Hike : One of the most popular hikes in Sedona, Cathedral Rock trail is a popular location to watch the sunset. Towering spires, sharp cliff edges, and a little climbing will bring you to some of the most incredible desert views!

Devil’s Bridge Trail : Devil’s Bridge is a natural sandstone arch that’s accessible by a 4.2-mile hike. The best time to visit is during sunrise and sunset when the red landscape glows!

The Birthing Cave Trail : This short hike leads you to one of Sedona’s beautiful caves on the side of a mesa!

Trail Tip: These southwest hikes can get really hot in the middle of the day! We recommend taking on these trails in the early morning, or during sunset/late evening for some cooler weather. See our Sedona packing list for seasonal tips and tricks!

Read More: 5+ Incredible Hikes In Sedona, Arizona You Need To Experience

13. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park has it all – desert vibes, interesting landscape, beautiful cholla gardens, and so much more.

It’s located east of Los Angeles, neighboring with the resort town of Palm Springs.

It’s most well known for its namesake, the Joshua Tree , which cover much of the park’s landscape. Unique boulder piles like Skull Rock (see photo below) combined with the high desert shrub make this place a unique part of any southwest road trip.

There are several types of accommodations near Joshua Tree National Park.

You can find tons of free camping spots around the park, wilderness areas within the park (with the proper permits) and campgrounds to be as close as possible to the attractions.

If you are into glamping, you’ve got to check out the insta-famous Joshua Tree House by Sara and Rich. Their picture-perfect home is close to the park, with all the luxurious amenities of a desert oasis. (Also, get $40 off your first booking with this code!)

Read More: Gorgeous Places To See In The American Southwest

14. San Diego, California

Oh, the options are endless in San Diego! This is where we began our Southwest road trip itinerary, but this is not where we ended it. However, if you want to drive all the way up the coast on a California Coast road trip , this is a great place to start that journey.

With the endless cafes, ice cream shops and restaurants to discover, there’s also a ton of amazing natural beauty to explore around San Diego .

Here are a couple of spots we were lucky to see on our latest trips:

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (La Jolla, California)

With over 8-miles of trails in this park by the ocean, you can explore as much or as little as you’d like. Torrey Pines is a preserved site with rugged cliffs, rare pine trees, and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.

You can come to join a 1-hour ranger-guided tour of the park on weekdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Visitors Center. Spaces are limited to 10 people per day!

California State Beaches

What’s a trip to sunny California without visiting the Pacific Ocean? Below are some of our favorite beaches to explore. Call it a last hurrah or celebration on finishing your epic Southwest road trip! Congratulations, you!

• Moonlight State Beach
• Cardiff State Beach
• Torrey Pines State Beach (North and South Shore)
• South Carlsbad Beach
• Coronado Beach and Dog Park

Nearby: How To Spend A Fun Weekend In West Hollywood, California

Our 10-Day Southwest Road Trip Route

Looking for a day-by-day itinerary through the southwestern region of the US? Here’s what our exact southwest road trip itinerary looked like during our last journey around this corner of the USA.

Again, driving around the southwest US can be as short or as long as you want it to be! There are endless things to explore, so if your time is limited here’s a 10-day southwest road trip itinerary we suggest you follow.

This way, you can dip your toes in a ton of different areas, and then return to your favorites on a future trip!

Day 1: Alabama Hills, California

Day 2: Death Valley National Park (See our 24 Hours In Death Valley Itinerary !)

Day 3: Valley of Fire, Nevada

Day 4: Zion National Park

Day 5: Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 6-8: Sedona, Arizona

Day 9: Joshua Tree National Park

Day 10: Torrey Pines, San Diego, California

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Around The Southwest USA

Still have questions about your upcoming road trip? Here are some of the most common questions around planning a southwest road trip itinerary:

How Do I Get Around On A Trip In The American Southwest?

Unfortunately, we don’t live in any of those Southwest cities listed above. If you’re like us, you’ll probably be flying into the cheapest airport you can find, which will depend on the type of route you want to take!

If you need help finding cheap flight deals, you can track destinations with Skyscanner and buy when tickets are the cheapest!

We suggest flying into large airports to get the best deals on flights. Large airports mean there are more flights coming in per day, which means more people can book and they won’t be in such high demand.

Here are the major cities this mega Southwest itinerary will pass through – all are great starting points for your road trip around the American Southwest.

• Phoenix, Arizona (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport – PHX)
• Las Vegas, Nevada (McCarran International Airport – LAS)
• Los Angeles, California (Los Angeles International Airport – LAX)
• San Diego, California (San Diego International Airport – SAN)

RENTAL CARS:

Looking to go camping during your Southwest road trip? We did too! There are TONS of areas in the southwest perfect for free camping , so you can have an epic trip on an epic(ly cheap) budget!

To make your car camping adventure as cozy as possible, we’d suggest renting a car that can fold the backseats down completely flat.

That way, you can pack your sleeping bag and sleeping pad and snuggle up in the back for a cozy (and free) place to sleep on your southwest road trip.

Looking For A Camper Van or RV?

One of our favorite places to look for RVs for rent is a place called Outdoorsy . It’s kind of like Airbnb for recreational vehicles. People will lend their camper vans, mobile homes, and more for travelers like you!

It’s fully insured, and an awesome way to save money on the road and get the full road trip experience. Click here to browse their huge selection!

What’s The Best Time Of Year For A Southwest Road Trip?

In our opinion, we think the best time of year for a perfect Southwest road trip would be between the months of March and April.

This is when most of the snow has melted in the spring (except for in Bryce Canyon !) but the desert weather is not yet too hot.

We also think that between October and November is a good time to plan your southwest road trip itinerary.

The weather is getting cooler from the summer, and most families have children back in school, so crowds are less than the peak summer season.

This Isn’t The End…

Didn’t see your favorite American southwest destination in this blog post? That’s because we haven’t explored there yet!

We can’t wait to do some more driving around the Southwest US. As we explore more destinations, we’ll be updating this post with more information. Keep coming back!

Are you planning your own amazing Southwest road trip? Tell us about the stop you are looking forward to the most!

10 Amazing Destinations in the American Southwest

The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip

How To Spend One Day In Death Valley National Park

5 Amazing Hikes In Sedona, Arizona You Need To Explore

How To Find Movie Road In Alabama Hills, California

The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip Itinerary

How To See Big Sur, California In One Day

After way too many years of working and raising children I have the opportunity to do something I love and travel the country. All back roads and amazing places. Just found your blog and most of my planning is very similar to what you do. After reading about your adventures, my biggest concern is being shut out of places I want to see because my trip will be fluid and I really don’t want to rush to a place. There is no way I can set something up six months in advance. Maybe a month would work do me. I plan on going for two years. Entire country except for the heartland. Any advice? Below you ask for a website. I’m just getting to it.

Hi Eric! Thanks for the comment! What do you meaning being shut out of places?

We are planning on doing part of this in September. So so excited! One thing we did notice is a lot of campsites close from mid/late September for the winter.

Hi Nicola! I hope you have the best time! And depending on the parks, the campsites are generally open through October, especially in the warmer southwest climates. You could also try apps like iOverlander that show you forest roads to camp for free, year-round if the road conditions permit!

22 Mind-Blowing Things to See on an American Southwest Road Trip

04/08/2021 by Kristin Addis 56 Comments

The American Southwest is hands-down one of the best road trips in the world. The baby blue waters, deep canyons, curious rock formations, and deep oranges make it feel otherworldly at times.

This road trip itinerary is based on the famed Grand Circle trip with a few variations on the theme thrown in. You can pick and choose and do this in a week and a half, or spend months and see everything on this list. Choose your own adventure.

Gear up, because this is one of the finest adventures in the wild west!

Table of Contents

Getting Started

This itinerary begins in Los Angeles, California. You can start it in Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Salt Lake City if you prefer. This is a ‘choose your own adventure’ type of itinerary.

I went with a camper van from JUCY ( you can compare options incl. Jucy here ) which had a sink with a water tank, a comfortable bed, a full kitchen, and a solar panel to keep me charged when I was otherwise off the grid. It was a convenient way to do this since I never had to set up a tent, could pack up and drive easily every morning, and could cook and eat anywhere and everywhere. I also encountered some rain on my trip and rain in a camper van is a non-issue but in a tent it can be most uncomfortable.

Much of the land in Utah, Arizona , and even parts of California is BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land which means it’s public and free to camp as long as you’re not visible from the road and you leave no trace. That’s what makes a camper van such a good deal and one of the best ways to see the American Southwest! You’ll see me reference this throughout the article.

Here’s a video with some of the best adventures:

By the way, I did most of this trip alone, so don’t despair if you don’t have anyone to go with. The solo aspect of this trip made it all the more magical. Without further ado, here’s the fabulous itinerary:

Nevada is typically synonymous with the booming nightclubs, dazzling lights, and poker tables of Sin City. While I’m a big fan of the strip for a girl’s trip, I also know that there’s much more to Nevada than just Las Vegas. The surroundings can be beautiful as well, and if on a trip where your aim is to appreciate the natural beauty, you’re still in luck in gorgeous Nevada.

1. Seven Magic Mountains

Seven Magic Mountains is an art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone off of Highway 15 just before Vegas if coming from Los Angeles. It’s a series of, you guessed it, seven stacks of brightly painted rocks meant to symbolize the midway between the natural and the artificial which are the mountains and the highway. It’s meant to stay only through the end of 2021, so stop by while you can!

It’s only a slight detour off of the 15 and it probably only cost me 20 minutes total to pull off and see them. If driving on the 15 from Los Angeles you’ll see the sign for the turnoff about 15 miles before reaching Las Vegas and can navigate there using Google maps as well .

2. Helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon

Since I only had about a week to get through my whole itinerary, I figured the best way to finally see the famed Grand Canyon would be to skip the crazy long drive and crowds and to fly right into it at sunset. Fast, easy, and in style! But if you’re starting in Arizona, don’t worry, we’ll talk about driving to it as well later in the post.

After the Magic Mountains I got a quick bite to eat and headed to Maverick Helicopters for their Wind Dancer sunset tour which departs from the strip during golden hour, lands in the Grand Canyon for champagne, and flies back to the strip at sunset, just as everything on the strip is lighting up.

I had always expected that the Grand Canyon would be quite grand (and it was) but what really surprised and impressed me was how beautiful the scenery we flew over to get there was. It’s an incredible way to get a glimpse of some remote and desolate areas that you wouldn’t otherwise see, plus it packs a lot of great experiences into just a few hours. It’s one of those splurge experiences that’s oh so worth it.

Here are some other helicopter tours available:

• Grand Canyon Dancer Helicopter Tour from South Rim
• From South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour

3. Valley of Fire

Valley of Fire is a state park in Nevada and my first overnight of the trip. After the helicopter ride, I continued the additional hour to the first come, first serve campgrounds within the park boundary and settled in for the night, waking for sunrise the next morning.

The park entrance is regulated with an honesty box to collect the $10 park fees and $20+ camping fees if you arrive after dark like I did. It was also totally empty around sunrise, so it felt like I had the park more or less to myself in the early morning hours. That was pretty cool! That being said, you might prefer a guided hiking tour .

• Recommended sights:  Seven Sisters, Elephant Rock, Beehives, and Fire Wave Trail (if you have more time).
• Camp:  Check space at campsites within state park or alternatively camp on BLM land just outside of the east park entrance.

– Read More –

Want to see northern Nevada too? Check out the Weirdest Road Trip in the USA

Our complete Nevada Guide

Southern Utah is simply one of the best areas in the American Southwest with its canyons, bright orange rock, and unique formations.

In Utah, you’ll see an overwhelming amount of options for camping, hiking, biking, canyoning, kayaking, etc. Unless you can spend months here, you’ll have to make some heart-breaking decisions between which parks to see and which to skip. Some, like Zion and Bryce are mega famous and will be packed with people, and others, like Grand Staircase-Escalante, you just might get all to yourself.

4. Zion National Park

Zion is one of the most popular national parks in the United States and a must-do on your southwestern road trip.

The main park is accessed by park shuttles that start running around sunrise and end around sunset. They change depending on time of year so check here before making plans. I stayed near Zion for two nights and hiked the Watchman Trail, Observation Point, and Upper Emerald Falls and enjoyed all of them. Sadly, The Narrows was closed due to too much water, but that is one of Zion’s most popular hikes and I was sad to miss it.

I had visited Zion 10 years prior and did the Angels Landing Hike. Even back then, with far fewer visitors, it was a hectic trail with the narrow drop-offs and hand chains, though the ending view is breathtaking. As an alternative, Observation Point instead is an 8-mile trail that looks down on Angels Landing and provides an epic view. More on that here .

• Recommended sights:  Observation Point, Overlook Trail, Emerald Pools, The Narrows, Angels Landing
• Camp:  Campgrounds book out months in advance around Zion, and first come, first serve spots are usually snatched up too. There is BLM camping in the eastern part, or you can camp at the Zion Canyon Campground and RV Resort owned by Ferber Resorts which is walking distance to the park, has some riverside spots, and costs $44/night (plus tax) with showers, Wi-Fi, and toilets.

5. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce is known for its famous hoodoos, the natural amphitheater, and the sunrise and sunset viewpoints. It’s also quite a bit higher in elevation than Zion, so bundle up!

If you’re squeezed for time, you could do one hike in Zion and head out to Bryce the following day to do one hike and catch a sunset/sunrise. On the other hand, if you want to take it all in, consider this 3-hour sightseeing tour that includes stops at Thor’s Hammer, the Cathedral, and the Natural Bridge.

• Recommended sights:  Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Queen’s Garden, Bryce Amphitheater.
• Camp:  There are several first come, first serve campgrounds in Bryce which you can get information on when entering the park.
• Click here to find it on the map.

6. Scenic Highways 12 and 25

From Zion, take the road through the tunnel and out of the park onto scenic Highway 12 for one of the best drives of your life – seriously! Leave some time to stop at the scenic overlooks and parks like Bryce and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument because they are more than worth stopping off at.

If national park crowds are not your thing, hiking and camping around this area is a great alternative, and it’s one of my favorites of the whole trip.

7. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

I can’t say enough good things about the Grand Staircase-Escalante. It’s an area of over 1 million acres of protected land that has so many adventures inside of it that it would take a lifetime to scratch the surface.

The biggest differences between this area and the national parks is most of the trails in the Grand Staircase-Escalante will be accessed via dirt roads, some of which will be 4×4 only. There will rarely be services, like running water, paved trails, bathrooms, and electric hookups. The benefit is almost no crowds, free camping in the wilderness, and natural areas that are no less impressive.

I did the Coyote Gulch trail in one day via the sneaker route, which does involve using a rope to climb down a 250-foot vertical rock and navigating by GPS, but it was also one of the best camping and hiking experiences of my life. More on that here.

• Recommended sights: Zebra Slot Canyon, Peek-a-boo Canyon, Spooky Slot Canyon, Coyote Gulch, Devil’s Garden. Here’s a guided Slot Canyon tour if you are interested!
• Camp: Find BLM camping off of dirt road offshoots and drive for long enough that you’re not visible from the road. This is what I always did in Grand Staircase-Escalante as it’s free and legal.
• Click here to find it on the map .

Utah’s Secret Places, the Perfect Off the Beaten Path Itinerary

The Perfect Utah National Parks Itinerary

8. Capitol Reef National Park

After Coyote Gulch, Capitol Reef is a fantastic stop. There’s a popular scenic drive, but to head off the beaten path, I highly suggest going out to the Temples of the Sun and the Moon. If you have a 4×4 high clearance vehicle then the Caineville Wash Road should be no problem for you as long as it hasn’t rained recently. If in a sedan, ask at the National Park office to see what the road conditions are.

• Recommended sights: Temples of the Sun and the Moon, Queen Bee rock formation, Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook.
• Camp:  There’s first come, first serve camping at Cathedral Valley Campground which, at least when I visited, was free.

9. Goblin Valley State Park

This will be a detour off of Highway 24 though it needn’t be a super long one. Once you enter the state park ($15 fee) you’ll see it’s not particularly large, though giving yourself time to walk among the goblins from the overlook would be wise. There’s also camping available in the state park and it’s worth noting they have nice bathrooms!

10. Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park

Just outside of Moab, Utah, Dead Horse was one of the most impressive views I saw on this trip and I can’t believe it’s not more popular. The cost to get in is $15 and it’s a pretty small park, but the views at sunset are incredible!

While the main viewpoint at Dead Horse Point will have a few people around in the summer months, in the winter as pictured above, you could get it all to yourself. The majority of the view was totally open and there are plenty of spots where one could enjoy it in privacy. In the photo above, I’m perched on a rock above the cliffs over the viewpoint. Wowzers!

To see more of the last three places mentioned, check out my Utah’s Hidden Places video:

• Recommended sights: Dead Horse Point and if you have time, walk to it from the Visitor Center.
• Camp: Find BLM camping off of dirt road offshoots and make sure you’re not visible from the road. You’ll have to find a spot outside of the state park. Since I was already in the area, I decided to camp on BLM land between Dead Horse and Canyonlands National Park. You will see some ‘no camping’ signs, but most of them will say ‘no camping for the next 1/3 mile.’ After that, you’re free to camp. Just watch out for potholes in the dirt tracks.

11. Sunrise at Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park

Mesa Arch is easily the most famous feature of Canyonlands National Park, particularly at sunrise. Everyone wants to get a shot of that sun lighting up the arch and the sweeping view of the canyon below. I recommend getting there an hour or more before the sunrise if you want an optimal spot for photos. This one was taken from the right side of the arch.

12. Arches National Park

After my Mesa Arch sunrise, I drove to Arches National Park to check out some arches quickly before continuing on. This park is crazy popular. It’s also home to the Delicate Arch which you see on the Utah state license plate.

The photo above is of The Windows, which is an easy offshoot within the park where you can see several arches at once.

• Recommended sights: The Windows, Delicate Arch, Fiery Furnace (must register for this the day prior at the visitor center), Devil’s Garden. You can read more about the best hikes in Arches here. 
• Camp: Find BLM camping off of the 313 towards Canyonlands.

13. Needles Overlook

Since you’ll be passing by, the Needles Overlook on the way to Valley of the Gods is vast and gorgeous. It’s an easy drive-up viewpoint that will take about an hour roundtrip. I would only do this if you have the time to and wouldn’t have to cut something else that’s important to you, since there are a lot of epic views on this trip!

14. Valley of the Gods

The Valley of the Gods was an impromptu discovery for me when I saw it off the side of the road and elected to check it out. I’m glad that I did, because this sparsely-visited valley has RED rock formations, in layers of color reaching up towards the sky.

This is a great spot to see the sunset and camp for the night, as it’s BLM land and there’s plenty of free, leave-no-trace campsites to choose from.

Take the Valley of the Gods road offshoot and connect with the 261 to come back to the 163.

First Name:

Next you’ll make your way to Arizona, which is just as impressive as Utah with it’s deep canyons and impressive rock formations.

15. Canyon de Chelly

This national monument is a reasonably big detour if you’re short on time ( check if it’s open first ). However if you can spare an extra afternoon, I’d suggest taking a look because you won’t see as many people as you will in the other spots on this list, and it has some ancient cave drawings you can take a short hike to as well as several beautiful overlooks like this one, Spider Rock.

16. Lake Powell

Lake Powell is such a lovely lake and the perfect jumping off point for some of the most famous things to see in Arizona.

• Camp : There’s a BLM spot outside of Paige. Just be careful not to go into the deep sand, as I saw two cars get towed out of there!

17. Horseshoe Bend

I wondered if Horseshoe Bend could look as amazing in person as it does in photos – but it does!

It’s a quick walk from the parking lot to the overlook. I did it in flip flops.

Be sure to get there early if you want to stake out a good spot for the sunset. There are plenty of boulders on the cliff edge that you can perch on until the sun sets, and I can’t think of many better places to hang out, either!

18. Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon

Like Horseshoe Bend, the Antelope Canyon is worth it to see in person. Those swirling red rocks are so unique.

They are also popular. I still can’t decide if I loved or loathed the experience because it’s so crowded in there! You’ll have a hard time if you’re claustrophobic, which I am!

I did both the upper and lower and both are worth seeing (I have a comparison written here ), as the lower tends to have more colors and the upper has those famous light beams, but only at certain times of day. Gear up and prepare for the crowds, do your breathing exercises, and don’t forget to look up.

Check here to see if the canyon is open or not at the moment.

19. The Wave or White Pocket

The next most famous stop in Arizona is usually The Wave, famous for the wave-like shape and color of the rock. Only 20 people get permits to see The Wave each day, and you’ll need to apply at 9am the day before in Kanab, Utah. Since I was in Page, I opted to see White Pocket instead which almost nobody else was visiting.

While the wave would be amazing to see one day, White Pocket will blow your mind, too. I suggest booking with Kanab Western Adventures  to experience this hike, which is accessed via a sandy 4×4 road. More on the experience here.

20. Grand Canyon

You can’t say you saw the American Southwest without seeing the grandest canyon of them all. The southern entrance is even more impressive than the northern IMHO, with dozens of drive-up overlooks. I loved going for sunset!

On your way, you’ll see roadside stalls offering hand-made Navajo jewelry for sale. I highly recommend pulling off and checking one out!

21. Havasu Falls

If you’re up for an overnight backpacking trip and can secure the permits (which you must do in February, more on that here ), this bucket list item is SO worth seeing. There are several waterfalls to hike to, along with canyon hikes, and more.

I love Sedona so dang much! If you’re into energy healing, the whole of Sedona is considered a vortex. There are hundreds of hiking trails, impressive rock formations, and healing modalities on offer.

You can read all you need to know about the best things to do in Sedona here .

Check out my recent solo trip there:

There’s so much more to Arizona than we’ve listed here, including the Petrified Forest, Phoenix, and more. Read our full Arizona Itinerary here .

Over one week, over two thousand miles, lots of sunrises and sunsets, nights full of stars, and sore legs, this was my American Southwest itinerary. It’s one of the greatest adventures I’ve had, and I’m sure it will be for you, too.

With some experiences you can get to yourself, and some you’ll have to share, this is the perfect mix of solitude while still experiencing the popular must-sees.

– Want to add more states on? –

The Perfect New Mexico Itinerary

The Ultimate Colorado Itinerary

Happy road tripping!

What Does an American Southwest Road Trip Cost?

Southern utah’s secret places.

*Some of the companies mentioned here are partners who helped make this article possible, and some links are affiliate links. Anything you purchase through these links helps keep this site running at no extra cost to you!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Ijana Loss says

05/31/2017 at 7:19 am

This sounds like an awesome trip, I would love to do a trip like this sometime! Aside from having to book a couple places ahead that are really popular, like Zion, it seems like it would be possible to wing the whole thing too. I hate structuring hiking based trips, I like being able to hike random places on a whim. What season did you do this in? Obviously a winter trip wouldn’t be recommended unless you know how to drive in the snow, but I wouldn’t care for summer because of crowds and heat. Spring or fall would work, yes?

Kristin says

05/31/2017 at 2:59 pm

I totally winged the whole thing actually, and it was OK! I think May is a very popular month as well (I just finished the trip, I’m current with my blog now 😉 but the locals all say that the fall is the best time of year.

Ylvalie says

06/01/2017 at 7:38 am

Your pictures are fantastic!

Jeric Danao says

06/01/2017 at 8:23 pm

Wow this content is admirable. You already had me with the off-the-grid solar panel source, lol. Just giving up some of that freedom vibe as you relax and appreciate every destination’s hotspot. Thank you for sharing this!

Rebecca says

06/02/2017 at 11:24 am

Now sooooo much more excited – we’re heading to Utah tomorrow! Great pics and thanks for these tips.

Shannon says

06/02/2017 at 11:46 am

This trip looks awesome Kristin. Thanks for sharing. I have a SW itinerary on my list: Havasupai – Sedona – Antelope Canyon. You definitely saw and did a lot in one week! Those pics though?! Really amazing.

06/02/2017 at 1:43 pm

I totally missed Havasupai and Sedona and it broke my heart! So many hard decisions to make there!

06/03/2017 at 8:05 pm

Wow! Those photos are amazing!

I’m totally adding the American Southwest to my list. Just wondering, any idea/thoughts/knowledge on dog friendly or not? I’d love to bring my boys but not sure if it would be worth it for them.

Rough numbers, what would you recommend for money to do a trip as you did?

06/04/2017 at 7:49 am

I think it depends on which parks you visit if you’d want to bring a dog along. A lot of the trails I did would not be appropriate for dogs either but you can probably find options!

My main cost was gas since I free camped almost everywhere. I’ll do a budget post soon!

Maggie says

06/11/2017 at 3:33 am

Great post! It’s amazing how beautiful the American Southwest is. I grew up in Arizona and it’s embarrassing how little I’ve seen of it compared to what I’ve seen of the rest of the world! Given me some serious wanderlust for my own backyard!

Next time you’re in the area, you should definitely check out Sedona. I lived there for a little bit and it is absolutely beautiful. The Tonto Natural Bridge in central AZ is also really worth visiting and I don’t think it gets enough credit compared to the everything else AZ has to offer.

06/11/2017 at 6:36 am

It broke my heart that I didn’t have time for Sedona. I drove right by it! Had to make some tough choices but I do want to go back.

Lindsay says

07/12/2017 at 8:01 am

Hi Kristen – I’d like to learn more about this since my boyfriend and I are planning on following your itinerary in September. Jucy RV isn’t available out of Las Vegas during our dates, which we’re planning on doing and my boyfriend isn’t into the whole hiking & sweating everyday, & then not showering …so we might end up going with a suped up RV for $300ish/day which I’d prefer not to if we can shower at campsites. Can you let me know which campsites you stopped at and the amenities they have? He would like to shower daily but I’d be fine w every other day. Also, is it cool at night for sleeping? I’m assuming the campervan has AC but don’t want to leave it running all night. Also, would you recommend purchasing the unlimited miles option?

Thanks! Lindsay

07/13/2017 at 2:31 am

In most campsites you can find hookups and be fine. I just didn’t use campsites and free camped instead. It’s cold at night usually! Yes I’d do unlimited miles for this particular itinerary.

Anonymous says

07/31/2017 at 7:42 am

Thanks! We did unlimited miles with Escape campervans and we’re going to get one of those bag showers!

Nichole says

07/12/2017 at 9:19 am

My husband and I just decided this weekend to fly out to Utah in October and rent a camper van. I can’t wait and the more I read I just keep getting more excited. Is it easy to know when you’re on public lands to camp? This will be my first trip west so I don’t really know what to expect.

07/13/2017 at 2:30 am

You can look up maps before you go but yeah, it’s usually pretty clear, at least it was to me.

10/16/2017 at 5:46 pm

Don’t be sad about missing Havasupai. A permit is required to go there. Permits for all of 2017 became available on Feb 1, 2017 and were gone in days. It isn’t a drive by destination. It’s a 10 mile hike in, an overnight and a 10 mile hike out.

Your helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon didn’t take you to the national park which is 5 hours by car from Las Vegas. Helicopters don’t have that kind of range. You went to what is called the west rim and it isn’t even inside the national park boundaries. Cebe

10/17/2017 at 12:16 am

I wouldn’t mind the hike in, to the falls or the actual Grand Canyon!

10/21/2017 at 6:09 pm

Try 70 in Utah as well. My husband drives a truck and we came in through Salt Lake and leaving went on 70 past 4 or 5 of the canyons. To say breathtaking is an understatement. I was in years from the beauty. Have never seen so much in one day. Simply amazing!!! I’ve been home almosy a month and still havent gone through my pictures.

10/22/2017 at 6:10 am

Thanks for the tip!

11/21/2017 at 2:47 pm

Great write-up and pictures. A map would be most helpful.

11/22/2017 at 1:01 am

Under each place I’ve linked a map 🙂

Harish K says

12/02/2017 at 1:57 pm

Hi Kristin,

I am a big fan. I am following the above itinerary, but landing in Las Vegas and starting from Zion. I plan on going the Christmas week. I see weather not too bad, but would you suggest it?

Also, keep doing what you are doing, you are a great inspiration for people like me!

Thanks Harish

12/03/2017 at 5:13 am

If there is snow in Zion and the narrows are iced over that will be magical. Just be prepared for road conditions to potentially be icy.

Jenifer De Figueiredo says

01/02/2018 at 6:38 pm

This is amazing! I’ve been wanting to do this trip with the family for a few years now. My parents took my sister and I when we were 8 and 10. Looking forward to it this summer! How many on foot miles would you say you were doing a day during this trip? We have four girls, ages 11-17. Not all of them are that athletic. Trying to gauge how much time we should give the trip while avoiding whining. I know they will love it, but I don’t want to kill them! 😉 We will also probably take the dog and RV it. Thank you so much for this post! It’s so helpful! 🙂

01/03/2018 at 2:22 am

You can do shorter hikes in Zion than observation point, like the emerald pool, which is very nice. If you are RVing then you would probably skip Coyote Gulch as well, which were my two longest days. Dead Horse is one you drive up to, and if you do White Pocket with Mike that’s not much walking either, plus it’s so engaging and beautiful since the rock formations are all so unique and different, they won’t even notice how far they’ve gone!

Giovanni says

03/28/2018 at 8:44 am

Thanks for sharing this comprehensive and handy resource 🙂 By the way, what do you think are the best places to fly a drone for this trip? Thanks

03/30/2018 at 8:23 pm

It’s getting stricter with time, but definitely not in the national parks, and for State Parks like Dead Horse, only at certain times of year.

Ronald says

05/15/2018 at 9:14 pm

Hello, I love your post! I’m thinking of doing almost the same roadtrip as you very soon; however it was frustrating because my friend dropped out last minute. Did you feel lonely at all going solo on the road? I just want to get your thoughts bc I’m a little hesitant to just do this roadtrip with no company. I feel like it’s just a different dynamic than solo backpacking and staying at hostels, which I’ve done in the past and you always meet people. Thank you!

05/16/2018 at 1:50 am

I actually LOVED it and still think of it as one of my best trips ever. I met people sometimes at the free BLM campsites, as well as just randomly on trails and once in a parking lot of a campsite where I was showering. I got to talking to that guy, invited him to watch the sunset at Horseshoe bend with me, then we even met up again when I was in Chiang Mai in January. I was surprised by how many people I met. I also spent a lot of time alone and I loved that too. Being alone in the desert is profound. Go for it!

05/20/2018 at 11:03 am

Hi Kirsten,

I’m so glad I found your post after typing “solo road trip USA” in Google. ?

Will be solo tripping for my last 5D4N from LAX – am planning to drive from Las Vegas to antelope canyons & Horseshoe bend, spend a night then go onto Moab for the arches & another night before driving onto SLC for one more night then fly back into LAX for my flight back home. (LAX – LV – Page – Moab – SLC – LAX)

Just slightly worried for the 4+ to 5 hour drive each leg… (Friends say I’m crazy & told me to just join the tours to Antelope canyons & forgot abt the rest) but your post is very assuring! I wasn’t planning on getting an RV though, just a compact car & stay at the town motels etc.

Were there any instances where you were too knackered to drive after doing the hikes? Just worried that the heat might zap me out – will be going in a mths time (June!)

Thanks in advance for your sharing.

05/20/2018 at 11:23 am

I had a camper van which was convenient since it allowed me to stay out near the entrances to the parks but motels would be fine too! You’ll spend all morning getting from point A to B, that’s the main thing. I feel like you’d have so little time in each place it might be better to pick either Page or Moab and give yourself one full day without driving in one of them. I’d pick Moab, personally. I also had breaks here and there when I didn’t have a super long drive, and that made it enjoyable for me. However if you really want to see it all, then do it girl! Antelope Canyon and horseshoe bend aren’t really hikes, and you can see a lot in Arches without hiking either.

06/24/2018 at 3:06 pm

We’re planning a similar trip this fall, so your post will come in really handy as we really start to plan. Thanks so much for the wonderful ideas!

06/24/2018 at 11:55 pm

Sabhay says

08/21/2018 at 5:38 pm

Which drone do you use for photography? Would you be able to tell me the model number?

08/21/2018 at 9:42 pm

It’s a DJI Mavic Pro 🙂

Emily Wethington says

11/12/2018 at 6:13 pm

My family and I live in Cincinnati, Ohio. Which airport do you recommend to fly into that is close enough to one of these parks besides LAX?

11/12/2018 at 11:58 pm

You could also do Salt Lake City or Las Vegas.

02/12/2019 at 7:37 am

My family is flying into Las Vegas for the first week of April. We are planning on driving to the Grand Canyon first for an overnight stay then onto Zion for a couple days before ending up in Park City. Do you have any suggestions for hikes and sight seeing for this short trip that would maximize the time?

02/12/2019 at 10:18 am

I really like Observation Point in Zion: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/zion-observation-point/

02/26/2019 at 11:04 pm

Oh wow this looks AMAZING. Bookmarking this post so I can use as reference for when the day finally comes and I visit all these places! Goblin Valley looks awesome!

Sylvia Koss says

04/07/2019 at 2:54 pm

Beautiful. We are planning visiting south Utah in July. Flying to Salt Lake City and renting a car not camper. We don’t have much time only 5 days, what’s your recommendation? Thanks in advance

04/07/2019 at 4:03 pm

Check out Moab!

Keith Miller says

05/24/2020 at 2:21 pm

I read your adventures you wrote about and must say it brings back memories. I travel the whole US for one year. Been just about everywhere there is to go, especially the west and up to Canada. Based out of Aspen. I want to take my girlfriend to these places. She’s been in Europe and other places but not our beautiful USA. Your trip and story was awesome. Thank you for sharing. We just did a 6 day New England’s fall colors experience last October 12-18th from Boston thru Mass. NH. Vt. Me. and it was perfect timing. AirB&B each fantastic place. It was the most color I’ve ever experienced, every scenic highway throughout Certainly a must do!!! Again, loved your share.

05/25/2020 at 9:29 am

thanks Keith! I agree there’s soooo much to see in the US. I hope you guys get to explore soon.

Melissa Hardy says

09/12/2020 at 7:32 pm

This is so well organized!! Thank you for sharing all of this! My family did a seven day adventure around the Grand Canyon ending the Southern rim and went to many of these stops. We are planning another trip after all the Covid craziness passes. We wanted more time everywhere we went. Vegas was a whirl wind, we landed at 9 PM, got our rental car, checked into the Luxor and quickly drove over to the fountains before their last showing at midnight! I packed a lot in our itinerary but did a lot of research prior to going. We didn’t want to miss anything!! I will also share my blog in case you are interested or anyone else 🙂

10/10/2020 at 10:39 am

I love this part of the world and keep revisiting it too!

Yung Chen says

09/13/2020 at 12:10 pm

Dear Kristin:

Wonderful writing and many useful information. Please update your Google map links. Most of your writing’s map links are not working!

Keep up the good work!

They’re all working for me! LMK if there’s anything specific that isn’t working for you 🙂

Tiffany Carr says

10/04/2021 at 9:12 am

Hello, My plans to take my seniors on one last big trip before college got detailed last year so attempting to plan something more nature, simple, budget friendly and full of one time life experiences. Just started to follow your blog that I found. Our daughter is headed to Thailand in August of 2022 to teach English, so buying your book for her birthday. Debating between flying into Utah or Colorado. Want to rent a camper/van for the 3 of us. No agenda, just drive from airport for 3-5 days and back to airport.

What would be your best recommendation as to where to fly into, drive around/camp for 3-4 days? Hiking, swimming in natural springs and viewing God’s creation being the goal.

Ps. Should I get kitchen equipment with the van or place to grab at least one meal a day? We can improvise the other 2:) Thank you!!

10/11/2021 at 1:25 pm

Hmm it probably depends on where you can actually rent the van. I’d look into that first and plan from there!

Lynn Kirkland says

01/14/2022 at 5:47 am

Love your blog. So much information and secret little places to visit Love it. Great pictures and video.

We are planning a trip in April and we will include several of your adventures in our trip. The free camping information was great.

01/14/2022 at 1:36 pm

Yay glad you found it helpful! It’s my favorite place in the world. Enjoy.

Earnest Bijen says

05/11/2023 at 2:48 am

This American Southwest road trip itinerary is absolutely incredible! From the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon to the charming towns of Sedona and Santa Fe, this itinerary is packed with some of the most beautiful and fascinating places in the region. I especially love the idea of hiking in the Narrows of Zion National Park and exploring the unique geology of Bryce Canyon. Road trips are such a wonderful way to explore a new destination, and this itinerary provides a great mix of nature, culture, and adventure. Thank you for sharing this comprehensive guide to exploring the American Southwest!

05/13/2023 at 6:21 am

glad you like it!

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Southwest Road Trip Itinerary: 5 Days, 10 Days, and 2 Weeks!

February 25, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

If you are looking for stunning Southwest road trip ideas, then I have you covered!

The Southwest is a beautiful part of the United States that is full of natural wonders, unique towns and cities, and so much more.

There is so much to do and see, so I’ve come up with multiple epic road trip itineraries. No matter your interests or what states you want to see, there are options for you!

The Southwest is a vast region of the U.S., so keep that in mind when you are planning your American Southwest itinerary. You won’t be able to see everything in one road trip.

I have road-tripped the Southwest many times as both a kid and an adult. I keep coming back for more and I know you will too!

So, let’s take a look at the best Southwest road trip itineraries for your bucket list!

Table of Contents

Las Vegas To Bryce Canyon

• Valley of Fire State Park
• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon

Start this Southwest road trip itinerary in Las Vegas, Nevada. Make sure to take some time to explore the famous city. Once you’ve had your fill of the neon lights, head to the nearby Valley of Fire State Park.

This is a stunning park full of amazing massive red sandstone rock formations. You can also find 2000-year-old petroglyphs carved into these Mojave desert rocks.

Next, head to Zion National Park in Utah. Zion is known for its beautiful sandstone cliffs. The cliffs are pink, red, and cream, and scattered with trees. They look especially beautiful on a clear, sunny day.

Outside of Zion National Park, you can choose to check out the Transition Zones as well. These are areas where the geology, geography, and even weather change drastically.

If not, continue onto Bryce Canyon National Park where you’ll finish your road trip. It is known for its dark red hoodoos, which are rock formations formed by erosion.

If you want an introductory 5 days in the Southwest, this is a great road trip option if you do not have a lot of time.

Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip

• Arches National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park

If you want to enjoy an epic Southwest national parks road trip itinerary, plan on hitting Utah’s Mighty 5. This is the best Utah road trip for nature lovers! It is a great introduction to the Southwest!

Begin at Arches National Park outside of Moab. This park is known for its many unique rock formations, including over 2,000 natural arches. There are a ton of hiking trails to explore.

Next, head to nearby Canyonlands National Park for over 330,000 acres of rugged Utah wilderness. It also has arches, as well as canyons, mesas, and buttes. It’s a perfect example of Utah’s wild landscapes.

Continue to Capitol Reef National Park where you’ll find white sandstone cliffs. Even if you don’t love hiking, you can experience beautiful views along the scenic drive.

Then, head to Bryce Canyon National Park. Admire the crimson hoodoos and excellent hiking trails.

Finish this desert road trip at Zion National Park. Enjoy the sandstone cliffs and bright blue skies before you head back home.

This itinerary is great for 10 days in the Southwest!

Las Vegas To The Grand Canyon

• Las Vegas, Nevada
• The Hoover Dam
• Flagstaff, Arizona
• Grand Canyon National Park

If you are looking for the best Grand Canyon road trip , this is it! Start by exploring Las Vegas before heading to Valley of Fire State Park.

At Valley of Fire, make sure you explore some of the hiking trails. On your hikes, you’ll be able to see some of the 2000-year-old petroglyphs.

From there, stop at the Hoover Dam. This historic dam is a really impressive manmade structure on the border of Nevada and Arizona. I recommended taking a tour and learning about its important history.

Once you’ve learned a little bit more about the Hoover Dam, head to Flagstaff, one of the best weekend getaways in Arizona !

Flagstaff is a really cool city nestled in the mountains near the Grand Canyon. It’s a great spot to enjoy delicious restaurants or bars, but don’t stay out too late.

You’ll be heading to the Grand Canyon, and you’ll want to get there pretty early to beat the crowds. End your vacation by hiking through one of Southwest USA’s most iconic national parks.

This is easily one of the best road trips from Las Vegas! It is a popular trip in the summer.

Highlights Of New Mexico

• Albuquerque
• Bandelier National Monument
• International UFO Museum and Research Center
• White Sands National Park

I love this ultimate New Mexico road trip itinerary ! It is a beautiful state with so much to do and see.

Start in Albuquerque and explore New Mexico’s artistic city before heading to Bandelier National Monument. You’ll especially want to stop by the Santa Fe National Forest area of the national monument.

After enjoying the great outdoors, head to the city of Santa Fe. Explore New Mexico’s capital city and its many historic buildings and plazas.

Once you’ve soaked in the sights, you’ll want to do one of the most iconic New Mexico activities. You can’t visit New Mexico and not see the International UFO Museum and Research Center.

New Mexico is known for being the site of one of the most famous supposed alien craft crashes, Roswell. At the UFO Museum, you’ll learn all about alien activity in the world and more.

From there, head to White Sands National Park, your last stop. Explore the perfect white sand against the expanse of bright blue skies before you make your way back home.

This unique park is one of the best places to visit in the Southwest!

Top Highlights Of Arizona Road Trip 

• The Grand Canyon Loop

Start this epic Arizona road trip by flying into Las Vegas and driving to Flagstaff. Las Vegas is typically cheaper to fly into, and it’s pretty centrally located.

While you drive from Las Vegas to Flagstaff, I suggest making stops at the Hoover Dam and the Flagstaff Mountains.

In Flagstaff, you’ll get a break from the heat because it is high up in the mountains. It is a charming city full of things to do like exploring unique shops, restaurants, and bars.

Next, drive the loop that takes you from Flagstaff and around the Grand Canyon. While on the loop, there are several stops you can make to get great views of the Grand Canyon or to get out and hike.

The last stop is the city of Sedona. There are a ton of epic hikes in Sedona ! Places to explore include Oak Creek Canyon, Slide Rock State Park, Devil’s Bridge, and Cathedral Rock.

When you are ready to end your road trip, head back to Las Vegas to fly home.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip

• Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
• Page, Arizona
• The Grand Canyon

Like most Southwest road trips, you’ll want to start your journey in Las Vegas. Spend some time there or head straight to Zion National Park.

At Zion National Park you’ll find great hiking opportunities amongst the pink and cream sandstone cliffs. Ride the park’s shuttle and take in the views.

From there, head to Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. It is full of slot canyons, unique hiking trails, and even arches. It is not a typically crowded park, so it’s a great stop if you don’t love crowds.

Continue to Page, Arizona. It is just outside several smaller parks like Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell. They are very pretty and worth the stop.

End this American Southwest road trip to the Grand Canyon. You can’t visit this part of the country without seeing its most iconic site. You definitely want to take the time to explore the Grand Canyon.

I know you will love this 10-day USA road trip itinerary!

Southwest California Road Trip

• Death Valley National Park
• The Trona Pinnacles
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Mohave National Preserve

Start this Southwest California road trip in Death Valley National Park.

Death Valley is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the country and it is stunning. It is a beautiful park with desert landscapes and hidden oases scattered throughout the park.

From there, head to the Trona Pinnacles. They are a unique geological feature in the middle of the California desert and are worth a stop.

Next, head to Joshua Tree National Park. This is one of the most iconic parks in California. Joshua Tree is where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet to create a unique and beautiful landscape.

After exploring this vast desert, head to Mohave National Preserve, where you’ll end your road trip. Mohave National Preserve is full of canyons, mesas, mountains, and even abandoned mines.

If you want to road trip the Southwest national parks beyond Utah, this is a great option!

Central Utah Road Trip

• Dead Horse Point State Park
• Castle Valley

To start your Central Utah road trip, head to the city of Moab. This cute town is centrally located by some of the area’s best national and state parks.

Take some time to enjoy the town before heading to Dead Horse Point State Park.

This state park is just outside of Moab and is known for its breathtaking lookout of the Colorado River and even Canyonlands National Park.

After getting a view of Canyonlands, head into the beautiful national park to enjoy even more stunning views, great hikes, and more.

From Canyonlands, make your way to Arches National Park. It is north of Moab and is very unique. It has over 2,000 natural rock arches that you can get up close to on various hikes and drives.

End your road trip in the Southwest in Castle Valley. This is a small town named for all the unique castle-like rock formations that surround it.

You will love seeing the most beautiful places in Utah !

Arizona + New Mexico

• Scottsdale, Arizona
• Tucson, Arizona
• Silver City, Arizona
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Taos, New Mexico

This road trip focuses on some of the bigger cities in Arizona and New Mexico for those who don’t necessarily love hiking or outdoor adventures.

Start in Scottsdale, Arizona. Outside of Phoenix, Scottsdale is a beautiful city and you can enjoy sites like the Phoenix Art Museum or the Desert Botanical Gardens.

Once you’ve had your fill of Scottsdale, head to Tuscon. Along the way to Tucson, I suggest stopping by Saguaro National Park to see the large Saguaro cacti.

The city itself is full of Spanish and Native American history. Make sure you take some time exploring the historic sites.

Continue to Silver City. You’ll travel through the Gila National Forest on your way, and if you have the time, it’s worth a stop.

In Silver City, explore the old city streets. It was a 19th-century mining town, and many of the buildings are from that period and a part of the area’s mining history.

Silver City is a pretty cool city to explore, so make sure you give yourself some time there.

Next, you’ll head into New Mexico and stop in the city of Albuquerque. Albuquerque is great for seeing some live shows, enjoying a good meal, and exploring the city streets.

From Albuquerque, you’ll head to Santa Fe, New Mexico’s capital city. It is one of the America’s oldest cities and full of fun and unique things to do in the Southwest USA.

Discover historical sites, fun boutiques, delicious restaurants, and more!

End your road trip in Taos, one of the most popular cities in New Mexico. Taos is near some of the USA’s Ancestral Puebloan dwelling sites, which are a must-see.

In Taos, learn about Native American history, explore Adobe buildings, and skiing in the winter. Taos is a perfect ending to your Southwest USA road trip.

If you want to road trip the Southwest USA’s best cities, this itinerary is for you!

Four States Southwest Road Trip

• Valley of the Gods, Utah
• Monument Valley Tribal Park, Utah
• Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
• Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
• Antelope Canyon, Arizona

This is called the Four States road trip because it covers the area known as the Four Corners. However, I’ll be focusing on three of the four states.

Start the road trip in Utah at Valley of the Gods. This is a scenic sandstone valley full of unique rock formations.

It’s the perfect stop before heading to Monument Valley, which is a Navajo Tribal Park. Take tours of the 16-million-acre Navajo Reservation, but please remember to be respectful of the land and its people.

From there, head to Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado. Mesa Verde is known for its Ancestral Pubelan cliff dwellings which have been very well preserved.

The most popular of these is the Cliff Palace. Mesa Verde is a really cool national park and a must-see on this Southwest itinerary.

Next, head to the Petrified Forest National Park. The Petrified Forest is a landscape full of trees that have become petrified and turned to stone over millions of years.

It’s a great place to admire one of nature’s most unique effects from time.

Continue to Horseshoe Bend, a horseshoe-shaped curve in the Colorado River. It’s just outside of Page, Arizona, and is often considered the East Rim of the Grand Canyon.

End your road trip at Antelope Canyon. This famous Arizona slot canyon is also near Page. It is located on Navajo land and is a unique rock formation that is perfect for ending your road trip.

Phoenix To Grand Canyon

• Montezuma Castle National Monument
• Wupatki National Monument

The Phoenix to the Grand Canyon road trip is the second most popular Grand Canyon road trip. This itinerary is packed with beauty and fun!

Start in Phoenix and explore the unique city before you head out onto the road.

Your next stop on the Southwest itinerary is the Montezuma Castle National Monument.

This historic site features the preserved cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people. Take your time exploring the area on hikes, strolling through the historic museums, and stopping along the drive.

Next, head to the city of Sedona. This is a great city in Arizona to stop in!

While there, I suggest exploring Red Rock State Park and hiking to the gorgeous Cathedral Rock or Devil’s Bridge.

Once you’re done exploring Sedona, head on to Flagstaff, an Arizona city nestled in the mountains.

In Flagstaff, you’ll be near the Grand Canyon and it’s a great place to stop and take a break before heading to the Grand Canyon.

The Grand Canyon is where I suggest spending most of your time. Explore as much of the area and hikes as you’d like to before heading home.

You cannot road trip the American Southwest and skip the Grand Canyon!

On the way home, make one last stop at the Wupatki National Monument. It has five prehistoric pueblos and is worth the brief day trip from Flagstaff.

The National Monument perfectly rounds out your trip as you head home and back to Phoenix.

Northern Nevada Road Trip

• Pyramid Lake
• Black Rock Desert

On this road trip, you’ll explore Northern Nevada. Start in the Biggest Little City in the World, Reno.

In Reno, you’ll find tons of things to do, like the Riverwalk, over 120 murals in Midtown and Downtown Reno, and more. It’s a cool city with an endless amount of things to see.

From Reno, head to Pyramid Lake. It is a beautiful, large lake north of Reno.

I suggest stopping by the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Museum and Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s Native peoples. You should also take time to walk around the lake and enjoy the epic views.

Continue to Gerlach, see the Fly Geyser, and admire the folk art on Guru Road. It’s the last space of civilization before you head into the Black Rock Desert.

Black Rock Desert is your final stop and is where the Burning Man Festival is held every year.

You’ll find a beautiful desert landscape full of large black rock formations, the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, and more. The Black Rock Desert is a great way to end your exploration of northern Nevada.

Arizona + Utah Loop Road Trip 

• Zion National Park, Utah
• The Wave, Utah
• Buckskin Gulch, Utah
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Utah
• Moqui Cave, Utah
• The Grand Canyon, Arizona

This is the longest road trip on my list, perfect for 2 weeks in the Southwest. There are a ton of awesome stops!

First head to Zion National Park. It’s a beautiful park filled towering cliffs, wildlife, and famous hikes such as the Narrows and Angel’s Landing.

Continue next to The Wave, a red sandstone rock formation that genuinely looks like a wave in the desert. Then head to Buckskin Gulch, which is a slot canyon in Utah , right on the Arizona border.

Next, head further into Utah to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. This park is full of miles of reddish-pink sand that you can explore for as long as you’d like.

Near the sand dunes is Moqui Cave, a really cool sandstone erosion cave that is worth a stop.

After that, head to Arizona and Antelope Canyon. It is home to two unique slot canyons on Navajo land.

In addition to seeing the slot canyons, because you have to have a certified Navajo guide to tour it, you’ll learn about the Native history of the area as well.

Next, make your way to Horseshoe Bend, a unique bend in the Colorado River often considered the easternmost point of the Grand Canyon.

Near Horseshoe Bend is the Valley of Gods, just over the border in Utah. It’s a valley full of unique rock formations that is definitely worth a stop.

For the last leg of your trip, head to Flagstaff, Arizona. It’s a great place to stop and catch your breath before heading to the Grand Canyon.

Spend as long as you’d like exploring the Grand Canyon before heading home.

The Extraterrestrial Highway

• Extraterrestrial Highway Sign
• Alien Research Center
• The Black Mailbox
• Little A’le’inn

This is easily one of the most unique road trips in the Southwest. If you love all things alien, then you have to do the Extraterrestrial Highway in Nevada.

Jump on the Extraterrestrial Highway in Alamo and head to your first stop, the Extraterrestrial Highway Sign.

You’ll find a handful of these signs along the highway, some are rather untouched, and others are covered in stickers and fun graffiti. The one near Alamo is covered in stickers and is a fun stop to take a picture to commemorate your trip.

After that brief stop, head to the Alien Research Center. It is a large airplane hanger and right next to it is the Area 51 container. Also in front of the research center is a large silver alien statue.

Next, head to the Black Mailbox, which used to be the spot of a small mailbox for aliens. It was stolen, but you can find a little shrine created by alien enthusiasts in its place.

After that, you’ll head to the Little A’le’inn. The Little A’le’inn is a hotel, bar, and restaurant all wrapped together. It’s a fun alien-themed pit stop to grab a bite to eat before you finish your trip.

You’ll end this unique road trip in the Southwest outside of Area 51.

You obviously cannot go on the property, but alien lovers are allowed to drive the 12-mile dirt road and at least see the gates, if you’re feeling brave. This is a truly unique road trip that is a ton of fun.

Trail Of The Ancients

• Cedar Mesa, Utah
• House on Fire Ruins, Utah
• Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, Colorado
• Hovenweep National Monument, Uath

The Trail of the Ancients is a popular route in the Southwest USA for those who’d like to see ancient artifacts.

First head to Cedar Mesa, Utah, where you can find plenty of petroglyphs, ruins, and pictographs on any of the hikes you choose to take in the area.

Next, head to the House on Fire Ruins, which are a set of ruins set into red sandstone. On the hike, there are eight ruins in total you can see. But you don’t have to walk the entire ten miles to see a few of them.

Next, head to Cortez, Colorado. Now, Colorado isn’t typically considered the Southwest, but it is fairly close to the Utah border, so it works.

In Cortez, you’ll find the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. At the monument, you’ll find over 6,000 ruin sites that were the homes of ancient peoples in the area.

A visit here is a great way to learn more about the Native peoples who called the area home thousands of years ago.

End your road trip at the Hovenweep National Monument. Hovenweep is another spot where you can find ruins from ancient Native peoples.

There are a few really cool ruins. The trail continues further if you have the time to see it, but this is also a great stopping point if you don’t have time.

Where To Begin Your Southwest Road Trip

Your starting point depends on which American road trip itinerary you’ll be doing. Some of the most popular starting points are Las Vegas, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and Albuquerque.

Any big airport in the Southwest is going to be a great starting point. Most of the road trips in the Southwest start in Las Vegas as it is centrally located.

Especially if you are looking to explore the more southern areas, you’ll want to consider flying into the McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas.

If you want to explore more of the northern areas of the Southwest, Salt Lake City International Airport is a great option to fly into. Again, it just depends on where you’re looking to explore!

Best Time of Year for Your Road Trip in the Southwest

When to do a road trip out West itinerary depends on what you’d like to do and see.

Personally, I really love doing a Southwest winter road trip. The weather is cooler and there are fewer crowds. Car rentals and accommodations are also cheaper.

March through May and September and October are particularly great if you want to go when the weather is cooler.

In the summer months, it can be very hot depending on where you go. You may also see large crowd sizes. But, in the higher elevation areas, it will be cooler.

So really, pick the time of year that seems to work best for you and match the kind of experience you are looking for!

Example Southwest Itinerary Options

5-day southwest usa road trip: grand canyon loop.

Day 1: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park

Start in Las Vegas, Nevada. Drive to Grand Canyon National Park, South Rim (Approx. 4.5 hours). Explore Grand Canyon Village and enjoy sunset views from Mather Point.

Day 2: Grand Canyon National Park to Page, Arizona

Sunrise at Yavapai Point. Drive to Page, Arizona (Approx. 2.5 hours). Visit Horseshoe Bend at sunset.

Day 3: Explore Page, Arizona

Morning tour of Antelope Canyon. Afternoon at Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam. Stay another night in Page.

Day 4: Page to Zion National Park

Drive to Zion National Park, Utah (Approx. 2 hours). Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail for sunset views.

Day 5: Zion National Park to Las Vegas

Morning hike: Emerald Pools or The Narrows. Drive back to Las Vegas (Approx. 2.5-3 hours).

10-Day Southwest USA Road Trip: Utah’s Mighty 5

Day 1: Las Vegas to Zion National Park

Drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park (Approx. 2.5-3 hours). Explore Zion Canyon Visitor Center and scenic drive.

Days 2 & 3: Zion National Park

Hike Angel’s Landing and The Narrows.

Day 4: Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park

Drive to Bryce Canyon (Approx. 2 hours). Afternoon hike: Navajo Loop and Sunset Point.

Day 5: Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park

Morning at Bryce Canyon. Drive to Capitol Reef (Approx. 2.5 hours). Explore Capitol Reef Visitor Center and scenic drive.

Day 6: Capitol Reef to Arches National Park

Drive to Arches National Park (Approx. 2.5 hours). Explore Park Avenue and Balanced Rock at sunset.

Days 7 & 8: Arches National Park

Hike to Delicate Arch and explore Windows Section.

Day 9: Arches to Canyonlands National Park

Drive to Canyonlands (Approx. 30 minutes). Visit Island in the Sky district and Mesa Arch.

Day 10: Canyonlands to Las Vegas

Morning in Canyonlands. Drive back to Las Vegas (Approx. 6.5 hours).

2-Week Southwest USA Road Trip: Desert and Canyon Explorer

Days 1 & 2: Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park

Drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park (Approx. 2.5 hours). Explore Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

Day 3: Death Valley to Zion National Park

Drive to Zion National Park, Utah (Approx. 4.5 hours). Spend the afternoon on the Pa’rus Trail or visit the Zion Human History Museum.

Days 4 & 5: Zion National Park

Hike Angel’s Landing and explore The Narrows.

Day 6: Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park

Drive to Bryce Canyon (Approx. 2 hours). Afternoon exploration: Bryce Amphitheater from Sunrise to Sunset Point.

Day 7: Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park

Drive to Capitol Reef (Approx. 2.5 hours). Visit the Hickman Bridge and Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.

Day 8: Capitol Reef to Arches National Park

Drive to Arches National Park (Approx. 2.5 hours). Explore the park’s iconic arches in the late afternoon.

Days 9 & 10: Arches National Park

Full day of hiking: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch.

Day 11: Arches to Canyonlands National Park

Drive to Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky district (Approx. 45 minutes). Visit Mesa Arch and Grand View Point.

Day 12: Canyonlands to Monument Valley

Drive to Monument Valley, Navajo Tribal Park (Approx. 3.5 hours). Explore the Valley Drive or take a guided tour.

Day 13: Monument Valley to Page, Arizona

Drive to Page, Arizona (Approx. 2 hours). Visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

Day 14: Page to Las Vegas

Spend the morning at Lake Powell. Drive back to Las Vegas (Approx. 4.5 hours), possibly stopping at the Valley of Fire State Park if time allows.

The Southwest USA is such a diverse and unique area of the country. It is full of stunning state parks, the best national parks, cool cities, and fun tourist attractions.

I am confident there is the perfect Southwest road trip on this list for just about every type of traveler. So let me know which one you like the best, or if you’ve done any of these yourself!

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The Perfect 4 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

• Itineraries
• March 5, 2023

In this post we’ll be sharing our recommended 4-day itinerary for a road trip through the stunning Southwest region of the United States. From sweeping desert vistas to red rock formations, this journey is sure to take your breath away. While there are many regions of the Southwest, this itinerary focuses on the Nevada and southern Utah regions.

Disclosure: A ll opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.

Table of Contents

Responsible Recreation in the Southwest

The desert heat is unforgiving, so the best time for this road trip is Fall through Spring. If visiting in the Summer, plan to adventure at sunrise and sunset and plan other activities during the hottest part of the day. Additionally, since cell service is spotty in this part of the US, we recommend downloading an offline map in the Google Maps mobile app. Finally, you should download offline trail maps with the AllTrails app.

In order to recreate responsibly in these remote areas, follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles:

• plan ahead and prepare:  research current weather and trail conditions, bring enough food and water, bring/download an offline map, prepare for crowds in certain areas
• travel and camp on durable surfaces:  be sure not to hike off trail or use social trails! Camp at designated areas only
• dispose of waste properly:  even an orange peel or cherry pit can disturb the ecosystem and take years to decompose. Be sure to pack out absolutely everything! 
• leave what you find:  do not take rocks or build cairns of rocks, do not carve into trees, rocks, or other natural objects
• minimize campfire impacts:  know current fire restrictions, keep fires small and only use established fire rings
• respect wildlife:  be sure to stay at least 100 yards away from bears and 25 yards away from all other animals
• be considerate of other visitors:  do not play music on the trail, give the right of way to uphill hikers

Where to Start your Southwest Road Trip

We recommend starting your Southwest road trip in Las Vegas, as it has a major airport that is closest to the areas in this itinerary.

Once you fly into McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, you have two options to get to your first destination of the trip, Valley of Fire State Park:

• spend the night in Las Vegas and drive 1 hour to Valley of Fire State Park the next day
• head closer to Valley of Fire State Park and stay closer to the park

We chose the latter and stayed at the North Shore Inn at Lake Mead . Keep in mind accommodation options are limited near Valley of Fire State Park. There are also 73 campsites available in the park and are all first come-first served.

Day 1: Valley of Fire State Park

Sunrise at valley of fire state park.

Day 1 of the Southwest road trip starts with sunrise at Valley of Fire State Park. One of the reasons we stayed so close, is so that we could easily catch sunrise this morning. There are tons of incredible options for sunrise at this park, but we chose the famous Mouse Tank Road Viewpoint.

After turning onto Mouse Tank Road from Valley of Fire Highway, you’ll drive until you see a small parking turn out. You can put these coordinates into your GPS: 36.461651, -114.520567. Just be aware that cell phone service is limited in the park.

Once at the parking area, you can climb a small hill to access the view.

Fire Wave Trail

The Fire Wave Trail is one of Valley of Fire’s most popular hikes and for a good reason! Round trip, the hike is only 1.5 miles with minimal elevation gain. At the end of the trail is the Fire Wave, a massive striped sandstone formation that looks like a desert wave. We had great light here shortly after sunrise! This is a must do in the park.

White Domes Trail

Another short trail with SO much to see. The variety of geological features and colorful landscapes you will see on this short trail are truly incredible. The 1.1 mile White Domes Trail is easy to add on to your day and another must do, in our opinion. Our favorite feature on this trail is the slot canyon and the yellow and pink mounds of rock that reminded us of sherbet. There are even “ruins” left over from a film set from the 1960s!

Drive to St George, Utah

The last thing you need to do at Valley of Fire State Park is drive around and stop at some of the turnouts and viewpoint. There is seriously so much to see in this small park and you will be amazed by the variety of landscapes. After you’re satisfied, it’s time to head to St. George, Utah! You’ll drive 2 hours to reach St. George, a charming town that will act as your home base to tons of epic outdoor adventures.

Lunch at Wood. Ash. Rye.

Before your next adventure, it’s time to check into your beautiful hotel The Advenire . After checking in, grab a late lunch at Wood. Ash. Rye.

Conveniently located in The Advenire, Wood.Ash.Rye. is a delicious spot with a seasonal chef-curated menu of shareable entrees and small bites. We actually ate lunch at their craft cocktail bar which had such a cool vibe!

Sunset at Snow Canyon State Park

It’s been a long day, so for your last adventure of the day, you’re staying close by. Only 20 minutes from the Advenire is the severely underrated Snow Canyon State Park. Compared to nearby Zion National Park’s 5 million visitors per year, Snow Canyon State Park only receives 300,000 visitors per year. It’s a great place to go to escape crowds if you want incredibly epic views to yourself!

We highly recommend the Petrified Dunes Trail for sunset. We’ve never done anything like this unique trail and the sunset we saw on the trail ended up being the best of the entire trip! The petrified dunes rise from the canyon floor and create a playground for you to explore. There’s a small official trail, but you can explore where you want.

Day 2: Zion National Park

E-bike canyon scenic drive.

We had the best time renting e-bikes and riding the 12.6 mile out and back Canyon Scenic Drive.

The coolest thing about Zion national Park is that when the Zion Canyon Shuttle runs, no private vehicles are allowed on Zion Canyon Road. This means that you can ride your bike in the middle of the road and it truly feels like you have the park to yourself!

It’s required that you pull over to let the Zion Canyon Shuttle pass, but otherwise you are free to ride and explore. There are bike racks at most trailheads, so you can choose to do hikes or just enjoy the ride.

Emerald Pools Loop Trail

This is an easy, family friendly hike that is across from the Historic Zion Lodge. At 3 miles, this is an easy one to add on. You can even hike to Lower Emerald Pool only if you’d like. The trail will take you to three beautiful pools that cascade through the canyon. Due to its accessibility, this trail can become very crowded, so it’s a good idea to start it early.

Lunch at the Zion Lodge

We stopped for a quick lunch at the Zion Lodge since it is right across from the Emerald Pools Loop Trail. We loved that they had black bean veggie burgers! You can also check out the gift shop and visitor center as well as lay on the grass and enjoy the views.

Sunset at Zion Canyon Overlook

After returning our bikes in Springdale and picking up rental gear for the Narrows at Zion Outfitters, we set off on our last adventure of the day: sunset on the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail. Only 1 mile, this short hike leads to a big reward!The trail itself is interesting and winds around cliffs, but the view of the canyon at the end of the trail is the reason this trail is a must do for anyone visiting Zion. Keep in mind you cannot take the shuttle to this trail and will have to self-drive. Parking can be difficult, so get there a bit early.

Day 3: The Narrows

Hike the narrows.

Possibly the highlight of the Southwest road trip, if you want to experience wading through a river in a slot canyon with thousand foot walls, you need to do this hike! This hike is one of Zion’s most popular for a reason. We’ve done it twice now and it’s one if the most unique hikes we’ve ever done.

This hike can be very dangerous, so be sure you are prepared with the appropriate gear which varies by season. We rented neoprene socks, a walking stick, canyon boots, and waterproof pants from Zion Outfitters.

There is always a flash flood risk in the Narrows and you should never do this hike when there is a chance of rain.

The Zion Narrows can be hiked from  top-down  (a 15 mile technical canyoneering route that requires a permit) or  bottom-up (accessible to day hikers). Check out our full guide to the Narrows .

Dinner and relax in St. George

After hiking the Narrows, we returned to the Advenire for a final dinner at Wood. Ash. Rye. Their menu is so extensive, we were happy to eat there again to try more dishes. If you are looking for something else to eat, check out all the amazing restaurants in St. George. Finally, relax with a drink at the bar or in the rooftop spa.

Day 4: Kolob and Kanarra

Kolob canyons.

The Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park is absolutely beautiful and worth a visit.

This section of Zion National Park is separate from the main area of the park. Because of that, you’ll find far fewer crowds here. You have a few different options for exploring here.

There is a 5 mile scenic drive with several viewpoints along the way. If you have more time, there are several hiking trails as well.

The Timber Creek Overlook Trail is a short 1.1 mile trail with minimal elevation that is one of the most popular options.

Kanarra Falls

If you still have time and energy before you leave, Kanarra Falls is a great last adventure. On this 4 mile round trip hike, you’ll wade along the creek and through a slot canyon until you reach beautiful Kanarra Falls, a gorgeous waterfall with a ladder to the top. Most people turn around at this point as the trail is not maintained past the waterfall. The hike to the waterfall should take 3-4 hours. Waterproof shoes are highly recommended and flash flooding is always a risk. Due to the popularity of this hike, reservations are required and they are $12/person and non-refundable. Purchase the tickets here .

We hope that our 4 day southwest road trip itinerary was helpful in planning your trip! We have loads of other southwest content, so if you are looking for other things to do check out some of our  Utah blogs .

Comments (4)

Carole louise valentine says:.

Three of us are coming to Kanab, Utah in April. Looks so beautiful. Can’t wait.

adventuringeyes says:

Kanab is such a cool town and the Coral Pink Sand Dunes nearby are so fun to explore! We hope you have a blast!

Susan Hoobler says:

I am trying to plan this for my birthday in September. Any other advice, suggestions or insights would be welcomed.

Hi Susan! September is an amazing time to experience this trip! It is getting into the shoulder season, but is still a popular time to visit the region, so book accommodations, flights, rentals and tours as needed asap. It’s great that you are already planning the trip 🙂 If you can get or already have camp sites, you could rent an Escape Campervan from Las Vegas which is a super fun experience. Otherwise, finding some good lodging like the Advenire will give you more comfort. If you have any specific questions feel free to leave another comment or DM us on Instagram 🙂

We’re Sarah and Myles, Colorado-based high school sweethearts passionate about adventure travel and the outdoors. We write guides and itineraries that you'll love!

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The Best 14-Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

A tour of the South Western States is an American road trip like no other. The scenery includes iconic locations and incredible landscapes that will have you reaching for your camera at every turn.

If you love big open spaces and exploring the great outdoors, then you’ll love a southwest road trip!

Disclaimer:  Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps cover the cost of running this blog. Thanks for your support!

The Great American Southwest

The American Southwest is a broad term covering Southern Nevada, Southern California, Arizona, Utah and New Mexico. To cover all of these areas in one trip would take a several weeks or even months, so I would recommend breaking it down into smaller sections.

I’ve spent a lot of time exploring this beautiful area over the years. I’ve run four overland tours from Mexico to Alaska, worked on conservation projects in the Southwestern National Parks and have enjoyed a few of my own road trips through these vast landscapes.

The result?

This epic 14 day itinerary which showcases the best of what the southwest has to offer . This itinerary involves a good amount of hiking so it’s physically quite demanding , however these hikes can be adjusted to suit your own fitness levels.

For this trip I recommend either car camping or using an RV/ campervan . For a complete, printable car camping packing list, see this article . Camping is by far, the best way to complete a south west road trip on a budget.

I would also recommend buying an Annual National Parks Pass as this will work out more economical than paying for each National Park individually. State Parks and Tribal Land entries will be additional costs.

Southwest Road Trip Map

To make your road trip easy to navigate I have pinned all the stops on this itinerary. Red pins indicate overnight stops and blue pins indicate hikes and photo stops.

14 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

This two-week itinerary is based on the Grand Circle loop but with a few extras thrown in. On this adventurous south west USA road trip you will visit no less than 8 National Parks, 3 State Parks, 2 Tribal Reservations and 1 National Monument. Phew!

Before you set off be sure to check out these top tips for enjoying a US road trip . Now saddle up and get ready to enjoy an epic road trip around the American Wild West!

• Day 1 – Arrive in Las Vegas
• Day 2 – Drive to the Valley of Fire State Park or directly to Zion and hikes the Narrows
• Day 3 – Hike Angels Landing or Observation Point
• Day 4 – Drive to Bryce Canyon and spend the day exploring. Stay in Kodachrome basin state park
• Day 5 – Drive to peek-a-boo slot canyon or to Lower Calf Creek Falls, then onto Capitol reef National Park for the afternoon
• Day 6 – Drive to Moab and visit Arches National Park
• Day 7 – Visit Canyonlands National Park and enjoy sunset at Dead Horse State Park.
• Day 8 – Morning activities in Moab then drive to Monument Valley to join an afternoon tour
• Day 9 – Drive to Page for an afternoon tour of Antelope Canyon. Take a short walk to enjoy sunset at Horseshoe Bend
• Day 10 – Relax at Lake Powell 
• Day 11 – Drive to Grand Canyon and explore south rim
• Day 12 – Take an early flight over the Grand Canyon, then explore a Lava river tube before spending the night at Flagstaff
• Day 13 – Drive to Petrified Forest National Park to explore with the option to wild camp in the Badlands. Alternatively spend the night in Winslow
• Day 14 – Drive back to Las Vegas taking a detour along Route 66 and stopping to see Hoover dam

Top Tip : Much of the land in Arizona and Utah is run by the Bureau of Land Management. This is public land which means it’s free to wild camp, (called dispersed camping) as long as you leave the land as you found it and don’t adversely affect it in any way.

• 6-person dome tent features a separate screen room for insect-less lounging and extra sleeping space
• Fast Pitch tent design sets up in about 7 minutes
• WeatherTec system and rainfly keep tent interior dry and comfortable
• Durable Polyguard fabric and strong frame designed to last season after season
• Measures 10 x 9 feet with 10- x 5-foot screen room; accommodates 2 queen-sized airbeds

I love this style of quick-erect tent as they’re so much easier to put up at the end of a busy day. They are ideal for wild camping.

Spend the first day of your southwestern road trip exploring Las Vegas. Even if you’re not interested in gambling, it’s still worth spending at least a day here to explore the craziness of this impossible desert city.

I strongly recommend watching a Cirque du Soleil show, catching the fountain show outside the Bellagio and enjoying views of the strip from the top of the Eiffel Tower.

Top tip: If you’re renting a car in Vegas it’s worth comparing rental prices at the airport versus the strip. Car rentals are often cheaper at airports. Click here to check prices.

There are so many places to stay in Vegas but a solid budget right in the centre of the strip option is the Rio . I’ve stayed here multiple times.

The first stop out of Sin City is the Martian-like landscape of the Valley of Fire . There are several options for great short hikes here such as Fire Wave and Elephant Rock.

Alternatively, if you want more time to explore Zion National Park then drive 2.5 hours directly to Zion. 

Zion operates a shuttle bus only system in the valley, so park up at your camping spot first before heading out for the afternoon. A good hiking option for today is the Narrows. This huge gorge offers welcome relief from the heat of the valley and is a fun walk through the beautiful water filled canyon.

River shoes are a must for this hike so be prepared and pick some up before you go. Alternatively, basic river shoes are sold near the entrance to Zion NP.

Today there is a full day today to explore more of what Zion has to offer. The iconic hike in Zion is Angel’s Landing . This is a relatively short but steep hike along very exposed cliff edges. 

Metal ropes guide hikers along a narrow trail with 1000ft drops either side. The views from the end point, Angel’s Landing, are definitely worth it but if you aren’t comfortable with heights I wouldn’t recommend this hike.

A great alternative with equally impressive views is Observation Point . This hike is longer and climbs higher to a point that overlooks the whole valley, including Angel’s Landing. As an overall hike I actually prefer this one as it offers more varied views throughout the hike.

In the afternoon cool off with a dip in the river or explore the Narrows if you didn’t do so yesterday. 

If you love these southwest national parks, you’ll love the national parks of the west coast

This morning, drive the short 1.5 hours to Bryce Canyon . There are several scenic/photo stops along this drive out from Zion and it also includes an epic drive through the tunnel cut straight out from the cliff-side.

Once at Bryce drive to sunset point to enjoy panoramic views of some of the most crazy rock formations you will ever witness. These eroded rock pinnacles are very unique and the best example of hoodoos I’ve ever seen. (Although Cappadocia in Turkey is a very close contender!)

Be sure to hike down into the canyon to fully appreciate the hoodoos. A top 3 mile hike is the Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop combination. You could easily spend more time in this area, so check out this post if you want to  explore more of Bryce Canyon.

A great option for camping tonight is at the largely overlooked Kodachrome Basin State Park, which is a 30 minute drive from Bryce. If you have the energy for another walk, try Angel’s Palace Trail and enjoy the red and orange glow of the rock in the soft evening light. For an easy stroll try Kodachrome Nature Trail.

There are two great options for this morning depending on which activity you prefer – a scramble through a slot canyon or a hike to a waterfall. Both are super fun ways to explore Escalante National Monument. 

The first option is to drive 1 hour to Escalante. Check in at the information centre to make sure the weather forecast is good, as flash flooding is a serious danger in the slot canyons.

From there, pull off highway 12 and take the gravel, Hole-In-The-Rock Road to the start of the trailhead. This road is rough but ok for regular vehicles as long as it’s dry.

Peek-a-boo and Spooky Gulch are two slot canyons which can be linked together to form a 3 mile loop. You don’t need technical gear or knowledge but you will need decent navigational and scrambling skills. Some of the holes are quite tight to squeeze through also.

The other option for this morning is to drive from Kodachrome for 1.15 hours to the trailhead for Lower Calf Creek . This 6 miles round hike is quite popular as the reward is a beautiful 126 ft waterfall to swim under.

In the afternoon continue along Highway 12 ( seriously epic scenery along this highway! ) and then 24 to Capitol Reef National Park. There are a variety of hikes to choose from depending on your needs but be sure to reward yourself with a delicious fruit pie at the end of the day!

Fun Tip: In Escalante there is a chalkboard where you can leave your own uplifting message for others to enjoy 🙂

This morning there is a short 2 hour drive towards the adventure playground of Moab, where you will be based for 2 nights. If you’re feeling energetic you could squeeze in a visit to Goblin Valley State Park for some short walks.

Otherwise, drive straight to Arches National Park where you can spend most of the day exploring this popular park. 

Highlights include the Windows Arch area, Landscape Arch and Utah’s most iconic arch, Delicate Arch. The hike to delicate arch is quite a steep 3 mile round trip. It’s a great hike to do at sunset.

Another option for sunset is one of my all time favourite things to do in Moab – a sunset Hummer Tour . Bumbling around the unbelievably grippy sandstone in one of these impressive machines is a seriously fun way to explore this area.

Today is the halfway point on this southwest USA road trip and there’s still so much more to see!

There’s another awesome Utah National Park located in close proximity to Moab which is Canyonlands National Park . Canyonlands is split up into several areas which need multiple days to be fully explored. The easiest and perhaps best area (at least for panoramic views) is the Islands in the Sky district.

If you’re an early riser, venture first to Mesa arch to enjoy sunrise with the photographers. Spend the rest of the day enjoying a series of short hikes along the scenic drive. These include whale rock, upheaval dome and the absolute must-do, Grand View-Point Overlook.

A great place to enjoy sunset tonight is at Dead Horse State Park, which is located near the entrance to Islands in the Sky.

After you’re finished be sure to head to Moab Brewery to enjoy some well-earned craft beer.

Take this morning to further enjoy some of  the activities on offer in Moab such as Mountain biking, rafting or canyoneering. There are so many things to do in Moab I definitely recommend spending more time here, especially if you’re an adrenaline junkie!

For a full list of things to do in Moab, take a look at this post.

After lunch drive 2.5 hours to another icon of the American Southwest, Monument Valley. En-route be sure to stop at Mexican Hat rock and then Forest Gump Hill for those awesome insta-worthy photographs.

On my first visit to Monument Valley I simply admired the buttes from the Visitor Centre Area, however in subsequent visits I enjoyed overnight tours down into the valley.

Spending a night sleeping under the stars and watching sunrise from within the valley is an experience that’s hard to beat. These are a big expense if you’re on a tight budget but I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. 

For a full description on what to expect on a visit to Monument Valley, click here!

After a magical night in Monument Valley there’s no rest as you head towards another incredibly photogenic location. Drive 2 hours to Page and take a tour of the magnificent Antelope Canyon .

To visit Antelope Canyon you must take a tour as it’s on Navajo Land and I  recommend booking a tour well in advance to avoid disappointment. Be warned these tours are always busy and be prepared to be ushered along like a cattle, however it’s definitely worth it.

In the evening take the short drive out of town to enjoy sunset at another epic location, Horseshoe Bend . It’s a short walk from the car park to the viewpoint and arrive early to get a prime spot for that picture-perfect photo.

Top tip: A wide angle or fish eye lens is needed to fit the whole horseshoe in.

After 9 action-packed days on this American southwest road trip, it’s time to relax a little bit with a day on Lake Powell . Lake Powell is a man made lake and is under the protection of the Glen Canyon Recreation Area.

Take a trip to the visitor centre to learn about Glen Canyon Dam and then head to the lake for a refreshing swim. Or if you can’t get enough of those natural arches, take a boat trip to Rainbow Bridge.

Today it’s time to visit the most famous destination on this southwest road trip. No road trip around the American south west would be complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon .

From Page drive 3 hours to the South Rim. A shuttle bus service runs along the length of the south rim allowing you to hop on and off along the various view points.

Hiking into the canyon is a great way to appreciate the geology of the canyon , although on this itinerary there isn’t sufficient time to hike to the very bottom. To escape the crowds hike the South Kaibab Trail and to really escape the crowds hike Hermit’s Trail.

If you’re interested in hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, take a look at this guide where I explain how to get camping permits and provide a hiking itinerary.

If the purse strings allow take an early morning scenic flight over the Grand Canyon . It’s the only way to truly appreciate the vastness of the canyon. Again booking in advance is essential if you have a tight schedule.

After you’ve gotten over the thrill of the helicopter ride, drive towards Flagstaff but branch off the 180 onto Forestry Road 245. Follow the signs to the Lava River Cave . This old lava tube stretches for 1 mile and makes for a fun side trip before reaching Flagstaff.

Take the afternoon to wander around historic Flagstaff sneaking down alleyways to spot the brightly coloured murals. Flagstaff has plenty of options for a fun night, as there’s often live music on offer.

There’s one more National Park to visit before this Southwest US road trip is through, one which is often overlooked. Petrified Forest National Park is less than 2 hours from Flagstaff and has many short hikes available. Crystal Forest, Giant Logs and Long Logs all offer great opportunities to learn about and view petrified wood, whilst Blue Mesa trail explores the Badland hills.

Petrified Forest has some excellent backcountry hiking and permits are easy to obtain, even on short notice as I once did. If you really want to get off the beaten track, get a backcountry permit and head into the badlands for a night of wild camping!

Alternatively drive to Winslow and spend the night there.

This may be the last day of your Southwestern US road trip but there’s still lots to fit in. If you camped in Petrified Forest last night make a quick stop in Winslow and get your photo taken on the famous corner . (If you’re an Eagles fan, you’ll know what I mean!)

Then drive back towards Las Vegas. Branch off the Highway at Seligman to cruise a section of the famed Route 66 . Stop in Seligman to buy some Route 66 souvenirs and grab a shake from Delgadillo’s Snow Cap. Stop in Kingsman to eat lunch at a Route 66 Classic Diner .

Rejoin the Highway and drive onto Hoover Dam. There is a strict security check to drive over Hoover Dam but you can drive over it and once over the other side there is free parking.

There’s a $10 fee to enter the Visitor’s Centre as this is not covered by the National Park Pass. It is also possible to park next to the security check point and walk up onto the bypass bridge for views over the dam .

Finally, from the Dam it’s around a 1 hour drive back to Las Vegas and the end of this epic south west road trip.

Itinerary Extras

If you have more time to explore there are a few extras that could be added to this itinerary. These are seriously dreamy locations which require advanced planned and/or a good amount of luck. 

This Instagram-heaven landscape requires a permit in order to visit. Only 20 permits are issued every day. 10 from walk-ins at the Grand Escalante Visitor Centre in Kanab and 10 from booking online, both via a lottery system. Doors open at 9am so it’s best to get there early!

Havasupai Indian Reservation

This is where you can find the majestic Havasu Falls. To visit this dream bucket-list spot you need to make a reservation, usually 1 year in advance and only 3 night packages are sold. Bookings open in February .

The Best Time for a Southwest Road Trip

I’ve typically travelled around the southwest in the spring and summer months. The summer months will be the busiest time to travel which means RV parks and campsites get booked up fast. In the summer, temperatures can be uncomfortably hot in some places and can make hiking really unpleasant. However, days will be long and evenings will be warm.

In the spring and fall, days will be warm and enjoyable although the nights can be cold, especially in higher elevation areas like the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon. The National Parks will be a little quieter out of school holidays and campsites will not be so full. 

If you love colder temperatures and snowy adventures you could do this trip in winter, but you’ll need to be fully prepared with all the right gear. Discover all the best national parks to visit during winter in this guide.

Taking everything I’ve said above into consideration, my favourite month to do a South West Road Trip in the US is May.

Essential Items for your Road Trip

A good quality camera to capture the beautiful landscapes. I use a Sony A6400 as it’s light and compact.

• FAST AND PRECISE AUTOFOCUS: rely on 0.02s AF, Real Time tracking and Eye AF (human/animal) to keep your subject sharp in any situation.
• PERFECT FOR VIDEO CREATORS: High resolution 4K HDR movie recording and Full HD slow motion feature (120p) with autofocus.
• NEVER MISS A MOMENT: Up to 11fps with Autofocus.
• CAPTURE CREATIVE ANGLES: easily frame up your subject when shooting from low or high angles with the tilting touch monitor.
• IDEAL FOR: starters and advanced users who wants a compact everyday lens (Sony 16-50mm) and an additional zoom (Sony 55-210mm) to capture sports and nature.

A good pair of hiking shoes. Boots are too hot and bulky for most of these trails so I prefer a lightweight trail shoe .

• Please pick 2 sizes up as this model fits small
• The reinforced SensiFit construction holds your foot comfortably in place, especially on those tough downhills
• Surrounded by foam cushioning for comfort, the Advanced Chassis connects directly to the sole to stabilize your heel
• We packed in two different types of rubber and a patterned heel area to grab the ground, giving you more control in the wet and mud
• Colours: Black, Ebony, Blue Ashes; Men’s Shoes; UK Size: 65

Plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong desert sun. I like this organic, ocean-friendly sunscreen from Green People.

• NATURAL & ORGANIC sun cream provides broad-spectrum UVA & UVB sun protection whilst being gentle on skin. High factor SPF30 sunscreen to protect against 97% of UVB rays. Safe, non-toxic UV filters….
• Use by date: This product’s use by date is determined by the Period After Opening symbol (symbol is marked by a box with a numerical number followed by letter M for months). The symbol denotes that…
• EASY TO APPLY, NON-GREASY formula allows smooth application with quick absorption. Sinks in quickly without leaving whiteness. Breathable, silicone-free formula is water repellent and suitable for…
• ALOE VERA, GREEN TEA & EDELWEISS naturally nourish and protect skin. Moisture-retaining for a longer-lasting tan and rich in antioxidants to protect skin from free radical damage. Protective Myrrh…
• REEF SAFE & CRUELTY FREE ingredients mean you can enjoy beach holidays safely whilst being kind to the ocean and marine life. 20p per sale of this product is donated to the charity the Marine…

A filtering water bottle so that you can always have safe drinking water. Staying hydrated is a vital in the desert areas. Discover the best filtering water bottles for travel and hiking in this handy guide!

• PURIFIES WATER: water filter bottle transforms dirty water to pure water in seconds. Ideal for cyclists. mountain bikers and athletes
• NEW LEAK-PROOF LID: new 2020 lid design is guaranteed not to leak, comes with a money-back guarantee
• ELIMINATES UP TO 99.9999% OF CONTAMINANTS: including viruses, bacteria, parasitic protozoa, chemicals, heavy metals and microplastics
• SINGLE HAND USE: Squeeze bottle with one-hand flip-cap action for fast drinking water on the go
• SIMPLE AND FAST: Just scoop, replace lid and drink. Pure water in seconds. No waiting. No plunging. No iodine. No chemicals. No batteries or UV light

US Southwestern Road Trip Summary

The American Southwest covers a vast area of land which requires many weeks to explore. However, on this 14 day road trip itinerary, it’s possible to visit the major highlights of Arizona and Utah.

The perfect way to enjoy this USA southwest road trip is through car camping or with the use of a campervan/RV. The best time of year to enjoy this itinerary is in Spring or Fall.

I hope you enjoy this epic area as much as I have!

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Louise is an Adventure Tour Guide, Snowboard Instructor & Mountain Leader from South Wales. Through working as a tour guide and snowboard instructor, she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and currently guides mountain trips in the UK.

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The Best Southwest USA National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

I decided to take an impromptu road trip through the Southwest USA this past month to visit some National Parks I’ve never seen! I hit the road with a general route mapped out but ultimately decided to “wing it” this trip. And it ended up being the best road trip I have ever gone on!

I’m sharing my complete 10-day Southwest USA National Parks road trip itinerary below. Keep reading to learn more about the stops I made, which parks I skipped and which parks are worth it, and what I would do differently if I had actually planned ahead.

If you plan on visiting multiple southwest national parks on your road trip, I recommend getting the annual pass:

You can view all national park pass options here

(Keep in mind: This itinerary is relatively fast-paced. I was on a mission this trip to see as much as I possibly could with the time I had off work, so I didn’t stay in any one place for more than 2 nights. If you opt to travel at a slower pace, give yourself an extra day at any of the locations below to give yourself plenty of time at each stop.)

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Here is the best 10-day National Parks road trip itinerary through the Southwest USA:

Day 1: death valley national park, day 2: las vegas, nevada, day 3: valley of fire state park, day 4: zion national park, wildland gardens - joseph, utah, mystic hot springs - monroe, utah, day 6: capitol reef national park, day 7: arches national park, day 8: canyonlands national park, days 9-10: return home loop through arizona - flagstaff, sedona, & scottsdale, california:, new mexico: .

I started my Southwest national parks road trip from Orange County, California - so for me Death Valley National Park was a great starting point. I got up early on Day 1 to get a head start on the road and I'm glad I made this an early day. The heat was already in triple digits by 10am - the valley clearly lives up to its name! I definitely recommend doing any of the hikes here first thing in the morning.

If you're driving from Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is another good starting point!

--------------- Read More ---------------

A Complete Travel Guide for Visiting Joshua Tree, California

I was in Las Vegas, Nevada for 2 nights while I mapped out the rest of my week and mostly laid low at my hostel to escape the heat.

Looking back, I would have skipped over Vegas to give myself more time to explore of the Southwest national parks. But I think that this would also be a good starting point for the road trip - especially if you're flying in from other parts of the country.

I woke up early to catch the sunrise in the Valley of Fire before heading onward into Utah. And although it's not a national park, it is definitely worth adding into your southwest road trip.

Valley of Fire State Park has some absolutely stunning views and is a scenic drive all on its own. The early morning hours is the best time to see the glowing "fiery" colors of the red rocks. I got to see a family of bighorn sheep this morning while they were strolling for breakfast!

Zion National Park is one of the best national parks and is an absolute a must-see for any road trip through the Southwest USA. It definitely lives up to the hype!

I was here on a holiday weekend and knew it was going to be crowded, so I opted for a sunrise hike to get an early start on the day. This ended up being the only hike I could do before the crowds entered the park - by 10am there was no parking anywhere. But the hike up to Canyon Overlook sunrise point was well worth waking up early for.

If I had more time, I would have loved to explore more of the hiking trails in Zion. And would have also included Bryce Canyon National Park into this Southwest road trip itinerary. Bryce Canyon is only about an hour drive from Zion and is well worth the visit!

20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Zion National Park in Utah

A Guide for Hiking Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion National Park

Day 5: Glamping & Hot Springs

I decided to detour a bit from visiting parks to spend a much-needed day off from hiking. I found the cutest AirBnB in Joseph, Utah where you can go glamping under the stars!

This AirBnb is located on a farm called Wildland Gardens and the hosts were incredible. They even stopped by to gift me a freshly picked watermelon from their garden.

AirBnB: Glamping at Wildland Gardens in Joseph, Utah

Nearby are the Mystic Hot Springs located in Monroe - Such a hidden gem in Utah and I couldn't recommend this place more. I stopped here for a morning soak before heading back out on the road again.

Mystic Hot Springs is a natural hot spring, accommodation, and event venue! You can learn more about what they offer and purchase soaking passes on their website.

Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe: Southern Utah's Bathtub Hot Springs

In my opinion, Capitol Reef National Park is one of the more underrated national parks in the Southwest USA. I actually ended up choosing to visit here instead of Bryce Canyon because I received more recommendations for Capitol Reef!

I stayed 1 night in Teasdale and the next day got up to explore the park before continuing my drive to Moab.

This motel I found on AirBnb was incredible! Cactus Hill Motel is located on a family-owned, 100-acre ranch in Teasdale and is only a 15 minute drive away from Capitol Reef. Linda and her family are the sweetest hosts and I couldn't have found a cozier accommodation.

Where to Stay: Cactus Hill Motel in Teasdale, Utah

Moab, Utah might have been my favorite part of this Southwest national parks road trip. I stayed in Moab for 2 nights to give myself a full day to explore both Arches and Canyonlands. Arches National Park is the closest to Moab of the two and was only a 10 minute drive from my hotel in the downtown area.

Moab felt like my return back into civilization on this road trip - There's so many restaurants and shops downtown and I would have loved to stay here longer.

Where to Stay: Moab Valley Inn

Best Hikes in Arches National Park - 5 Easy Trails You Can't Miss

Canyonlands National Park ended up being one of my favorite stops on this entire road trip. I think it's one of the best Southwest national parks and I highly recommend going early for the sunrise! I think I definitely saved the best for last when it comes to sunrises this trip, which is saying a lot because they were all stunning.

The drive into Canyonlands looks like a painting - it's so majestic in the early hours of the morning. I almost wasn't sure if I was actually awake or still back in my hotel bed just dreaming about it.

I spent the morning in the Island in the Sky district, which is the easiest to navigate by car. Catch the sunrise at Shafer Trail Viewpoint , or head out for a short hike to catch it at Mesa Arch - just know this viewpoint will be crowded as it's super popular.

One Day in Canyonlands National Park - Island in the Sky District

To return back home to Southern California from Utah I decided to drive through Arizona for the last weekend of my trip. I stayed 1 night in Flagstaff and spent the next day driving through Sedona . From there I drove into Scottsdale and stayed there 1 night before making my way back home.

My last day was spent mostly on the road and covered the longest leg of the trip - the return home from Scottsdale to OC. But for these days of the trip you could even include Grand Canyon National Park and Saguaro National Park on your Southwest national parks itinerary.

Additional Southwest National Parks:

Although I wasn't able to explore all the National Parks in the Southwest, here are more options that are worth mentioning for your itinerary:

• Saguaro National Park
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Oljato - Monument Valley
• Lake Powell
• Cathedral Rock
• Channel Islands National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Death Valley National Park
• Pinnacles National Park
• Sequoia National Park
• Kings Canyon National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Mesa Verde National Park
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Great Sand Dunes National Park
• Great Basin National Park
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park
• White Sands National Park
• Bandelier National Monument
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park
• Big Bend National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Goblin Valley State Park
• Dead Horse Point State Park
• Zebra Slot Canyon
• Buckskin Gulch
• Coyote Gulch
• Goosenecks State Park
• Hovenweep National Monument
• Grand Teton National Park
• Yellowstone National Park

Have you done a road trip through the Southwest USA National Parks? Share your favorite routes and national parks with me in the comments below!

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The Gal Behind the Blog

Hi I'm Rylie - Welcome to my corner of the internet!

I'm a solo traveler & photographer turned full-time corporate travel agent - born and raised in Southern California but now based in Colorado.

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These phOtos are GORGEOUS!

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The Best 2 Week Road Trip Itinerary For The American Southwest

The Southwest is a haven, with a romantic blend of big city culture, national parks, and stunning natural landscapes.The best way to explore this beauty is to take a road trip.

The Southwest is one of the best road trip options in the United States. In this post, I’ve handpicked some of the best stops on a 2 week Southwest road trip itinerary, with tips on what to see/do/eat/stay.

This road trip takes you from Arizona to New Mexico and on to Utah. Naturally, you’ll visit the Grand Canyon along the way.

If you have more than 14 days to road trip, I also suggest some beautiful day trips from the Grand Canyon and other places.

I suggest starting the trip in either Tucson or Phoenix. You can use one of these two cities as a launchpad, destination, or both. Both cities provide a fantastic introduction to the scenery and overall laid back attitude of Southwest USA.

I’ve written this two week Southwest itinerary with lots of options for extending legs. You can easily customize it or make it shorter or longer, depending on your own interests or schedule.

American Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s what to do and see on a two week road trip in the American Southwest:

Day 1-2: Start Your Road Trip in Phoenix or Tucson

Choose between Phoenix or Tucson to get your Southwest road trip off to a fantastic start. Both cities are cool in their own right.

Phoenix is definitely easier to fly into. I’m partial to Tucson because my mom lives there.

Choose Phoenix if you like the big city. Phoenix is loaded with cultural/artistic/historic venues and landmarks, and a hip downtown.

In terms of its foodie scene, Phoenix has dozens of ethnic restaurants and James Beard award-winning eateries from hole in the wall to luxe.

Chose Tucson if you prefer smaller cities with a slower pace and rich cultural heritage.

Tucson is beautiful, has amazing views, rugged mountains, ample outdoor adventure options, and some of the best Southwest food in the country.

Tuscon is also a designated UNESCO World City of Gastronomy. The town is a mini mecca for the arts — with regional museums, art venues, and its own ballet, symphony, opera and theater companies.

Things To Do and See in Phoenix

If you’re starting your Southwest road trip in Phoenix, here are some of my favorite things to do and see in Phoenix:

1. Head to Roosevelt Row

Roosevelt Row is Phoenix’s art district. This artsy area is a mix of indie shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Fancy galleries like Modified Arts and Eye Lounge share the area with street artists, pop up shops, and festivals. Dozens of murals dot the buildings.

2. Hit The Hive

Located in the fabulous Coronadao neighborhood, the Hive is a collective that combines visual arts, performing arts, and indie businesses.

You’ll find coffee shops, art studios, boutiques, and galleries.The Bees Knees is one of the best retro vintage shops you’ll ever find.

3. Hike in Papago Park

The lush and verdant Papago Park is a hiking and biking dream. It’s got winding trails for every level of experience and all sorts of geological formations.

For the full park experience, take the 2.3 mile Double Butte Loop. And don’t miss the iconic Hole in the Rock on the park’s east side.

5. Desert Botanical Park

Spread out over 140 acres in Papago Park, Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden is definitely worth a visit for nature lovers.

Native birds chirp as you explore different ecosystems, native plants, and cactus and agave collections.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the garden hosts temporary exhibits and a night-light show Las Noches de Las Luminaries.

5. Museums: Heard Museum & Phoenix Art Museum

The renowned Heard Museum showcases the art and history of American Indian cultures in the Southwest.

It displays 40,000 objects in 12 galleries. You’ll find baskets, textiles, blown glass, ceramics, and sculptures.

The Phoenix Art Museum is a surprisingly good museum, the largest museum in the Southwest.

It has both traditional and contemporary pieces on display in a beautiful setting. The museum houses over 20,000 art works and hosts world class exhibitions.

6. Taliesen West

Want to see a rare UNESCO site in the United States? Head to Taliesen West . It’s a stunning heritage property in nearby Scottsdale designed by Americas’s most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.

Taliesen West is one of only 24 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the United States. Designed by Wright, Taliesen West been described as a campus, a desert laboratory, and a historic landmark. 

It’s a a complex of low-slung buildings made of rock and glass in the Sonoran Desert. The beautiful building served as Wright’s winter home and the home of his utopian architectural school.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Taliesen West .

Where To Stay In Phoenix

Phoenix has some amazing hotels. You can stay in high style in the desert.

The Arizona Biltmore is Phoenix’s most iconic hotel, a luxury hotel with an award winning spa. It underwent a massive renovation in 2020. The Hilton Phoenix Resort is a sprawling resort that has it all. has it all.

The Kimpton Hotel Palomar is one of the coolest hotels in Phoenix. The beautifully decorated Kimpton says it’s “all about the extras,” including in room yoga mats.

The Royal Palms Resort & Spa is another historic hotel nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain. It’s posh, yet also charming and intimate.

Things To Do and See in Tucson

If you’re starting your 2 week Southwest itinerary with the laid back charms of Tucson, here are some of my favorite Tucson experiences:

1. Hike Mount Lemmon

Mount Lemmon is a (supposedly, seems longer) 9.5 mile trail. It’s an uncrowded out and back rocky hike with beautiful wildflowers and saguaros. There are fantastic views all along the trail.

You can also just drive up the mountain on the Mt Lemmon Highway. It takes about 1.5 hours. There are many lookouts where you hop out and check out the stunning views.

2. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

The  Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum  is a fun museum that interprets the Sonoran Desert. 

It’s a bit of everything rolled into one. The museum combines a zoo, a botanical garden, and a natural history museum.

The museum challenges the traditional concept of what a museum is by creating a mutually symbiotic relationship with the desert.

The desert museum is set on 21 acres with 2 miles of walking paths through various animal habitats. You can find 1,200 plant varieties and 56,00 individual specimens.

3. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park was created specifically to protect its prickly green saguaro cacti, which only grow in the Sonoran Valley.

The beautiful park is a hiker’s paradise. But you can also come just for a scenic drive or picnic.

Saguaro is made up of two separate areas — the Tucson Mountain District (West) and the Rincon Mountain District (East). Within the two parks are some of the finest example of Sonoran Desert landscape in the entire Southwest region.

There are countless things to do and see Saguaro National Park. Here’s my complete guide to visiting the park .

4. San Xavier del Bac

San Xavier del Bac is a beautiful mission church just south of Tucson in the Sonoran desert. It’s a National Historic Landmark known as the “White Dove of the Desert.”

Posing akin to a European artifact, San Xavier is a historic Franciscan mission church on a peaceful Indian reservation in the desert.

Built in the 1700s, this recently restored church is a lovely example of Spanish colonial architecture. Inside, it boasts colorful frescos (deep ochre and red), sculptures, and paintings.

Here’s my complete guide to San Xavier .

Day 2-3: Sedona

Melt into those wind-in-your-hair vibes and drive the 2 hours from Phoenix or 3.5 hours from Tucson to the breathtaking majesty of Sedona.

Sedona is an adorable New Age town and healing paradise, smack in the middle of the Arizona desert. It may be the hottest weekend destination in Arizona.

There are over 200 hiking trails in the greater Sedona area. Slide Rock State Park is a great place for hiking. If you’re a camper, it can also double as your camping base. Just be sure to reserve in advance.

I’ve written a 2 days in Sedona itinerary and a guide to the top attractions in Sedona . Here are some of my favorite things to do and see in Sedona:

1. Vortexes of Sedona

Looking like another planet, Sedona is renowned for its red rock buttes and canyon walls. Some of the town’s most famous hiking trails — Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Bell Rock — travel through Sedona’s famed geological vortexes.

Devil’s Bridge is my favorite. Don’t be afraid or intimidated by the name “Devil” This wonderful hike is exceedingly popular because it’s an easy (short but steep) hiking trail with mesmerizing rock scenery. 

Vortexes are believed to be locations where a swirling condensed center of spiritual energy projects out of the earth. The Native Americans recognized the power of these places and often used them for sacred ceremonies. Now, Sedona has a never ending fascination.

Aside from hiking to the vortexes, you can experience these natural wonders through yoga and meditation classes out on the red rocks. Or soar from above in a sunrise hot air balloon ride.

Here’s my guide to the vortexes of Sedona . You can take an organized   jeep tour   to explore the vortexes. If you don’t want to go in a group, you can book a  private vortex tour .

2. Downtown Sedona

Don’t forget to carve out some time to wander around the strip of funky downtown stores, which has this same mystical vibe. Cute (sometimes cheesy) shops display gorgeous crystals in the windows.

Sedona Candle Magic is always packed. There are spiritual healers available for hire, from psychic mediums to reiki healers.

If the spirituality thing isn’t your jam, I’d recommend popping into a hidden gem called Blackbird Vintage, right off the main drag in Sedona.

3. Sedona’s Art Scene

If you want to browse some local art, head to Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village . It will blow you away with its galleries, fine arts, and stunning jewelry and ceramics.

The village is designed along the architectural lines of a Colonial Mexican village, with vintage adobe buildings and quaint courtyards. It’s been a Sedona landmark since 1970.

The village is home to dozens of exclusive shops, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. You’ll find jewelry, basketry, pottery, weavings, Navajo rugs, wine, etc. One of my favorite galleries was  Azadi .

Founded in 1958, the Sedona Art Center is the central focus of the town’s creative spirit. The venue mounts exhibitions featuring painting, sculpture, and fine crafts from regional and national artists.

4. Chapel of The Holy Cross

If you love architecture, you’ll should next drive out to the  Chapel of the Holy Cross . It’s an unmissable attraction in Sedona that’s super easy to find and close to Uptown.

Built in 1956, it’s a striking landmark designed by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a pupil of  Frank Lloyd Wright .

The building looks like a concrete spaceship jutting out of craggy boulders. It blends a 90 foot cross, magnificent stained glass windows, and a modern design. 

5. Jeep Tours

Another iconic thing to do in Sedona is take a jeep tour.

There are so many options to choose from. I went on this  Pink Jeeps tour , which goes into the red rocks range. 

This  tour  takes you to the ancient ruins, including the Palatki Heritage site. This  tour  takes you to Diamondback Gultch for red rock views.

Another   jeep tour   takes you to beautiful Oak Creek Canyon. More adventurous types can do an  off road jeep tour .

6. Day Trip to Flagstaff

Flagstaff is jam packed with beauty and history. And it’s just 50 minutes north of Sedona.

An unusual alpine beauty 7000 feet high in the San Francisco Peaks’ foothills, this historic town is worth a day trip, if you have time in your Southwest itinerary. It may be one of Arizona’s best kept secrets.

Flagstaff has pretty Victorian mansions to admire. If you want a dose of Southwest art, head to the Museum of Northern Arizona, Old Main Gallery, or the Beaver Street Gallery. If you fancy a hike, take the low key Viet Springs loop.

Where To Stay In Sedona

On my last visit, I stayed in a beautiful  Air Bnb  in Oak Creek Canyon. I liked it since it was incredibly scenic and away from the crowds of Uptown. 

But Sedona also has some wonderful resorts —  Sky Ranch Lodge ,  Amara Resort ,  L’Auberge de Sedona , and  Enchantment Resort .

Enchantment Resort is in Boynton Canyon. It has one of the area’s best spas  Mii Amo , plus a yoga studio. There’s so many things to do in Sedona that you may need some R&R.

Day 4-5: Grand Canyon: What To Do At This Landmark

America’s geological marvel, the Grand Canyon, is about two hours north of Sedona. It’s an absolute must do on a Southwest road trip. If you didn’t day trip to Flagstaff, you could stop there on the way.

Unless you’re a look-and-go tourist, you should budget 2 full days to explore the Grand Canyon. And even that isn’t much time.

The Grand Canyon is massive. It’s the largest canyon in the world at 277 miles long and over a mile deep from the river to rim.

Because the canyon hikes are out-and-back, it’s sort of a reverse mountain. You end up with a hard, uphill battle after you’ve already burned through half the trail. For that reason, the rangers discourage hiking from the rim to the river and back in a single day.

Plan on hiking down to the river and staying somewhere in the canyon overnight.

Alternatively, hike only a portion of the trail and then head back up to the rim. There are plenty of stop off vistas with water sources and bathrooms. These make for excellent turnaround points.

If you only have time for one Grand Canyon hike, take the Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge (3 miles).

For a more ambitious hike, try the strenuous Bright Angel Trails, which ends at a great outlook over the Colorado River. For some solitude below the rim, take the Grandview Trail.

There quite a lot of tours you can book for the Grand Canyon. You can:

• take a helicopter tour
• take a guided tour of the South Rim
• take a Grand Canyon sunset tour
• take a walking tour of the South Rim
• 3 hour back road safari tour
• 2 hour Hummer tour

Another cool thing to do in the Grand Canyon is the  Skywalk . It’s a glass bottomed observation deck that extends 70 feet over the canyon. You can see the canyon floor 4,000 feet below you. 

Click  here  for a Grand Canyon West admission ticket. If you don’t want to drop below the rim yourself (I don’t blame you), you should book one of the tour above.

Day Trips from the Grand Canyon

More time on your American Southwest itinerary? If so, before leaving northern Arizona, there are some amazing day trips from the Grand Canyon.

1. Havasu Falls

Off the grid  Havasu Falls  is an incredibly beautiful spot with turquoise pools, one of the most famous hiking destinations in the US. It’s part of a series of waterfalls on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. 

Be forewarned, no day trips are permitted. You must apply in advance for a camping permit. It’s a 20 mile round trip trek.

The trek to Havasu Falls is really difficult. Depending on your fitness level, the hike can be extremely strenuous.

It begins and ends with switchbacks that change in elevation by 1,800 feet in the first two miles. The difficulty is compounded by heat in the summer.

2. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon  is a world famous slot canyon that’s on everyone’s Arizona bucket list. This otherworldly spot was created by water and winds over thousands of years. 

It’s a magical orangish rock formation. You can explore the Upper Antelope, the Lower Antelope, or Canyon X.

All of the local slot canyons are on Navajo land. So you must have a guide to access them. 

Click  here  for an admission ticket and guided tour. You can also combine the lower canyon with Horseshoe Bend on a  guided tour .

You can also get a ticket and tour for just the  lower canyon  or for the  upper canyon .

3. Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a classic symbol of the American West, with its beautiful red sandstone buttes and mesas. Monument Valley is a desert region of the Colorado Plateau.

You can take an easy self guided tour by car of the scenic 17 mile unpaved loop. The only place to hike without a guide is Wildcat Trail.

Where To Stay In The Grand Canyon

There are quite a few good hotel near the Grand Canyon. You can check out the Little American Flagstaff , the charming Canyons Boutique Hotel in Kanab, or The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon near the south rim.

Day 6: Drive to Sante Fe With Stops

The drive from the Grand Canyon to Santa Fe is lengthy. Clocking in at around 7 hours, you’ll need to allocate a full day of travel to it. But there are plenty of interesting pit stops along I-40.

1. Meteor Crater

The  Arizona Meteor Crater  is a popular attractions just outside Winslow. The 4,000 feet diameter hole was created 50,000 years ago. 

It’s touted as “the most well known, best preserved meteorite crater on Earth.”

Space enthusiasts come in huge numbers to see the crater each year but you do not have to be interested in space to be impressed with it. The lookout point allows you to look across the entire crater.

2. Winslow Arizona

Winslow is a town of just under 10,000 people in Navajo County, on the famous Route 66. Winlsow was made famous from the 1972 Eagles’ hit  Take it Easy.

Many tourists come to Winslow purely to take a selfie beside the statue on the corner made famous in the Eagles’ song. When you’re done, head to the Relic Road Brewing Company for burgers and a cowboy atmosphere.

Just a short distance outside Winslowis  Homolovi State Park . This park protects ancient ancestral sites of the Hopi people. 

They lived there before moving north to where the Hopi lived. Three trails provide 2 miles of hiking, where you’ll spot plenty of petroglyphs.

3. Petrified Forest

Petrified Forest is one of Arizona’s lesser known national parks. It’s a great stop on a road trip along I-40, a road which cuts right through the park.

The Painted Desert is on the north side. It offer breathtaking badlands views at several points along the road. It’s most beautiful in the summer. 

As you follow the road, you’ll enter the Petrified Forest area. You’ll see petroglyphs, Puebloan homes, and several areas with a concentration of petrified wood. 

There are plenty of short hikes and trails along the way. You cannot take any petrified wood out of the park. But there is some for sale in the nearby town of Holbrook.

Day 7-8 Explore Sante Fe and Taos, New Mexico

Welcome to New Mexico! From the moment you pull into Santa Fe and cast your eyes on its beautiful Pueblo-style architecture, you know you’re somewhere special.

The town is very unique, rich with Mexican and Native American culture. The first time I saw Santa Fe and Taos on a work trip, I was stunned.

1. Things To See and Do in Santa Fe

At the foothill of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains lies the US’s oldest capital, Sante Fe. It’s a must visit destination on a Southwest road trip.

Start your day in Santa Fe at the Sage Bakehouse , where you can pair delicious artisan bread loaves, pastries, sandwiches, and quiches with a coffee or espresso.

There are some really good walking tours you can take in Santa Fe. You can take history walking tour , a yummy New Mexico food tou r , a guided architecture tour , or a private tour with admission to the O’Keefe Museum .

You could spend hours wandering, admiring, and shopping on the tiny streets and shops of Santa Fe. There are plenty of souvenir and gift ideas — unique Mexican blankets, local salsas, hand painted silk scarves, and ceramics.

Santa Fe is also an art lover’s dream. with several local galleries and museums, including the Museum of International Folk Art and the Georgia O’Keefe Museum .

The O’Keefe Museum is a Santa Fe gem and must visit site for art lovers. O’Keefe was one of the most important artists of the 20th century.

She created paintings expressing the “wideness and wonder of the world as I live it.” The museum constantly changes the works on view. An 18 minute video fills you in on O’Keefe’s life and artistic objectives.

If you like immersive art, you may want to stop in at Meow Wolf Santa Fe , The Eternal House. Funded by George R.R. Martin, the Eternal House is a trippy sci-fi space loaded with fine art, interactive exhibits, and a spellbinding mystery.

After a long day of walking around, you’re probably wondering where to have happy hour. Grab a cocktail and a seat with a view at The Bell Tower Bar, a rooftop bar inside La Fonda hotel near the main square.

Then hit one of Santa Fe’s great restaurants. Alternatively, you can take an evening food tour with wine pairings at three restaurants .

Where To Stay In Santa Fe

For a splurge, you can check into the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado , the Inn of the Five Graces , or the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi .

My favorite is the Inn of the Five Gracie’s with its unique decor. Each luxury room has a kitchenette and fireplace.

You can also check out The Hacienda and Spa , The Eldorado Hotel and Spa , or the La Posada De Santa Fe .

2. Things to See and Do in Taos

Just 70 miles from Santa Fe, this New Mexico haven is known for its artsy vibe and ski scene, so it’s a year round destination.

The Taos Society of Artists staked the town’s claim as an art colony in the early 20th century. To this day, you can explore the galleries around the plaza and shop local art.

You’ll have fantastic shopping, endless art galleries, and excellent eateries. The shops on Bent Street are incredibly eclectic and creative.

The Taos Pueblo is a must do in Taos. It’s both a designated UNESCO site and a National Historic Landmark.

Taos Pueblo is an active Native American community in multi-storied adobe buildings. The pueblo has been continuously inhabited for 1000 years.

Where To Stay in Taos :

In Taos, you can check out Cielo Taos . It’s a magical retreat set on 30 acres with mountain views. For a cute B&B, check out the Dreamcatcher B&B .

Day 9: Drive to Moab

The 6 hour drive from Santa Fe to Moab is another long day of road tripping. You can leaven the drive with stops at various ancient ruins along the way.

Try the Pueblo settlements of Bandelier National Monument, the beautiful Puye Cliff Dwellings, and/or Mesa Verde National Park.

Closer to Moab, check out Newspaper Rock. It has one of the largest collections of prehistoric petroglyphs in the U.S.

Day 10-11: Explore Moab

With a Mars-like red rock landscape, two national parks, and tons of adventurous off road activities, the town of Moab is a must do destination in the American Southwest.

Before hitting the trails, fuel up with a flat white or egg sandwich at Moab Garage Co . You’ll need a full day to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

Arches National Park has over 2000 natural arches created by erosion, the world’s largest collection. It’s one of the most popular parks in the US and often crowded. You can see a lot from the car.

But there are plenty of great hiking trails too — Delicate Arch Hike (world’s most famous arch), Landscape Arch Hike, the Windows and Turret Arch Hike, Double Arch Hike, and Sand Dune Arch Hike.

You can also book a 4 x 4 jeep tour .

Canyonlands National Park is massive, but oh so beautiful. It’s chock full of arches, buttes, mesas, and canyons. The most visited area, close to Moab, is the Island in the Sky district.

Hike up to Mesa Arch. From there, drive down Grand View Point Road to a spectacular viewing point. If you have more time, you can hike the White Rim Overlook or Gooseberry Trail.

To maximize your day, you can book an 8 hour combined tour of Arches and Canyonlands . Or book a 9 hour 4x 4 adventure tour .

This town of Moab is also famed for its off road trails. ATVs casually troll down the main street alongside cars.

Popular off road terrain includes the bumpy terrain at the Merrimack and Monitor Buttes. Other popular off road trails nearby include Hell’s Revenge and Fins & Things.

If you want to extend this leg of the trip, consider adding on Great Sand Dunes National Park . There, you you can sled down the sand dunes of the Four Corners Monument and step into 4 states at the same time.

Where To Stay in Moab :

You could opt for an Airbnb with desert vista backyards.

For a hotel, check out the beautiful Hoodoo Moab Curio Collection By Hilton , the Moab Springs Ranch , or The Sunflower Hill Inn .

Day 13-14: Explore Salt Lake City

After all that nature, you land back in the city. Underrated Salt Lake City has so much to offer.

Depending on what time of year you visit, you can spend your days skiing in nearby Park City or dipping your toes into the cool waters of the Great Salt Lake.

The city is set alongside the mountains. There are hiking trails, nature activities, plus a trendy foodie scene. There’s scooter sharing all over Salt Lake City, which is a fun way to breeze through the different neighborhoods.

Here are some amazing things to do and see in Salt Lake City:

1. Temple Square

Temple Square is the holy place of the Mormons. You’ll find four spectacular Mormon buildings — The Mormon Temple, the Mormon Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and the Assembly Hall. Two information centers at the entrance to the square hand out info on the Morman religion.

The Mormon Temple is Salt Lake City’s most iconic monument. At each end of the huge granite building are three towers with spires. Atop the highest one is the gilded figure of the angel Moroni.

You’ll find the Neo-Classical domed State Capitol just a short stroll from Temple Square. Admire the marble rotunda, read up on Utah history, and take in the view of the city from the top of the main exterior staircase.

2. Liberty Park

Spread out over 80 acres, Liberty Park is the city’s largest public park. If you need some green space, this is a lovely place to picnic. The park is also home to Trace Aviary, one of the world’s oldest aviaries.

3. Utah Olympic Park

Built for the 2002 Winter games, this playground park offer summer and winter activities — skiing, tubing, rope courses, rock climbing, and zip lining.

4. Art Scene

Salt Lake City isn’t just about the outdoors. Its citizens are also obsessed with art. The Utah Museum of Fine Art displays works broadly covering art history.

The Urban Arts Gallery and Utah Museum of Contemporary Art focus on modern works and are both free. Nestled in the atrium of the city’s public library is the Art at the Main Gallery displaying regional art in a striking space.

4. Ensign Peak Trail

Just north of Capitol Hill, Ensign Peak Trail is a lovely way to get the lay of the land and see Salt Lake City from above. From the trailhead in back of the church parking lot, take the well maintained trail to the top of the peak.

5. Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats offer one of the most unique landscapes in the country. The flats are made of hard white salt crust as far as the eye can see.

Access to the Bonneville Salt Flats is free via a rest stop on I-80. You can even drive on the flats.

6. Great Salt Lake Park

Utah’s Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere and the eight largest in the world. Like visitors can revel in this geographical masterpiece. But can also snap photos, go boating or admire the animals.

You can book a guided tour to the lake from Salt Lake City . Or go on a 45 minute boat ride on the lake.

Where to stay in Salt Lake City :

For hotels in Salt Lake City, check out the Grand America Hotel , Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt , or the Radisson Hotel Downtown .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 2 week itinerary for the American Southwest. You may these other US road trip itineraries:

• 10 Day Road Trip in New Hampshire
• 10 Day Road Trip in Coastal Maine
• What To Do on a Berkshires Road Trip
• 1 Week Vermont Road Trip
• New England Fall Foliage Road Trip
• One week Itinerary for Southern New England
• 10 Day Southern California Road Trip

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 2 week itinerary for the American Southwest. If you’d like to road trip in the American Southwest, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

The Ultimate 12-Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary through America’s National Parks

Article Summary: Southwest National Parks Road Trip, Southwest Road Trip Itinerary, Southwest National Parks Tour

The American Southwest is easily one of my favorite regions in the United States and the globe. This southwest road trip itinerary is filled with stops that appear to be out of this world no matter where you choose to go.

Every destination has something new and exciting to completely blow your mind. Whether it’s Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos or the Mars-like landscape of Capitol Reef, the national parks in Utah and Arizona are some of the country’s most outstanding and are guaranteed to take your breath away.

With Las Vegas as an easy gateway to these incredible natural wonders, an epic American Southwest road trip should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Here’s the perfect southwest road trip itinerary to see the best of what this amazing region has to offer in 12 days.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, view my privacy policy .

Table of Contents

The 12-Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary Through America’s National Parks

Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit, and as vital to our lives as water and good bread. – Edward Abbey

Day 1: Fly to Las Vegas

I’ll be honest, Las Vegas isn’t my favorite. What can I say? I’m just not a city person. The city has so much glitz and glam, way too many people, and man is it bright or what?

But you know what surprised me? I had fun . To be in a place completely different from the cities I usually visit was kind of thrilling.

Furthermore, even though it’s not necessarily my idea of a good time, it was cool to see the strip and learn what everyone is always raving about.

Most importantly, though, Las Vegas is the perfect jumping-off spot for a southwest road trip. There’s plenty to do, both in the city and just outside.

Plus, if you’re looking for more outdoorsy things to do before you visit some of Utah and Arizona’s national parks , Las Vegas is surrounded by opportunities.

Where to Stay : Luxor , Bellagio , The Venetian Resort

Where to Eat : If you want to do things the Las Vegas way, have dinner on the strip or at a diner in the middle of the night.

Things to Do : Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area, Seven Magic Mountains, Valley of Fire State Park, Lake Mead National Recreation Area , Hoover Dam

Day 2: Drive to Zion National Park

One of the most popular national parks in Utah and the country, Zion is home to world-class climbing, canyoneering, and hiking. It’s the perfect destination for outdoorsy people looking for an adventure.

The park also has plenty to do for those who want to sit back, relax, and take in the stunning views at a more leisurely pace.

Check out The Parks Expert travel guide for everything you need to know about visiting Zion National Park .

Drive Time : 2 hours

Where to Stay : Staying in Springdale will be a bit more costly than in towns like Hurricane further away from the park. Check out the La Quinta , Holiday Inn , Zion Park Motel , Best Western , and Zion Canyon Lodge for some options. You can also camp in Zion !

Where to Eat : Oscars, Zion Pizza & Noodle Co, Zion Brew Pub, Bit and Spur

Day 3: Zion National Park

There are so many great things to do in Zion , no matter what season you choose to visit.

Things to Do : Kolob Canyon, Zion Canyon Drive, Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel

Hiking Trails : Angels Landing , The Narrows , Canyon Overlook, Observation Point, Lower Emerald Pool [read more of the best hikes in Zion ]

Day 4: Drive to Bryce Canyon National Park

Easily the most seemingly out-of-place, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to towering hoodoos and epic trails. I promise it will take your breath away.

This park is honestly like no other place you’ve seen before, and it makes it worthy of a lengthy visit if you have the time. It’s best explored on one of the many Bryce Canyon hikes .

Drive Time : 2.5 hours

Stops Along the Way : Cedar Breaks National Monument , Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel

Where to Stay : Best Western Plus , Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn

Where to Eat : Hotel buffet

Things to Do/Hikes : Check out the variety of viewpoints, Navajo Loop Hike, Mossy Cave Trail, Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Scenic Drive [here are more things to do in Bryce Canyon ]

Day 5: Drive to Moab via US-12

Hands down, US-12 in Utah is the most beautiful drive I’ve ever taken, and shouldn’t be missed on your southwest road trip.

It beats driving Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way , the Road to Hana , and every other scenic drive I’ve had the pleasure of undertaking. The beauty is breathtaking, and while the drive will take a bit longer than the most direct route, you will not regret it.

To see desert landscapes and snow-covered mountains, take US-12! Stop in at the Interagency Visitor Center near Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument in Escalante and Capitol Reef National Park for more stunning views. Spend as much time hiking in Capitol Reef as you can.

Drive Time : 5 hours

Stops Along the Way : Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument, Capitol Reef National Park

Where to Stay : Airbnb ( start here for $55 off your first stay!)

Where to Eat : Moab Brewery, Zax, Peach Tree, Sweet Cravings

Things to Do : Goblin Valley State Park, Dead Horse Point State Park

Day 6: Canyonlands and Arches National Parks

Stay another night in Moab and take in the sites at two more of Utah’s incredible national parks . If you have time, consider spending multiple days here to really see the most these two parks have to offer.

If you leave early enough on Day 5, you could potentially see Canyonlands National Park that evening and have a full day in Arches on Day 6.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is unique in that it has three areas to explore: The Needles, The Maze, and Island in the Sky. The Island in the Sky District is closest to Moab and the least primitive area of the park, making it easiest to traverse.

Things to Do : Mesa Arch, Upheaval Dome, scenic drives, check out the viewpoints, Grand View Point, stargazing, horseback riding, hiking

Arches National Park

Having been to Utah’s mighty five national parks multiple times, Arches National Park remains my favorite. I don’t know exactly what it is about these natural rock formations that make my heart soar, but it’s always such a pleasure to see them. I never tire of these amazing features and the other unique rock formations in this park.

Things to See/Do : Landscape Arch, Delicate Arch Trail , Fiery Furnace, Balanced Rock, The Windows, Devils Garden, Park Avenue [read about more hikes in Arches National Park ]

Day 7: Drive to Page, Arizona

This was the most disappointing day for us, and it was all due to the weather. That being said, we still saw some spectacular scenery. No southwest road trip itinerary is complete without the stunning Monument Valley (pictured above, and seen in countless films and TV series), unique natural bridges, or Navajo cliff dwellings.

Drive Time : 5.5 hours

Stops Along the Way : Natural Bridges National Monument, Monument Valley, Navajo National Monument

Where to Stay : Wingate by Wyndham

Where to Eat : El Tapatio, State 48, Big John’s Texas BBQ, Slackers

Day 8: Explore Page

Honestly, I didn’t have high expectations for our visit to Page . However, it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. The city itself wasn’t the most exciting place in the world, but the surrounding area will leave you speechless.

Things to Do : Glen Canyon Dam, Powell Museum, Horseshoe Bend (part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area), Antelope Canyon, Toadstools

Day 9: Drive to Flagstaff via Grand Canyon National Park

Another staple of America, and a must-see on any southwest road trip, how can you not stop at the Grand Canyon ? One of the most iconic national parks in America , be sure to plan ahead for your visit: it can be extremely crowded!

Stops Along the Way : Grand Canyon National Park

Where to Stay : La Quinta , Days Inn , Little America Hotel , Hotel Aspen

Where to Eat : Northern Pines, Nomads Global Lounge, Criollo Latin Kitchen, The Cottage, Brix, Tinderbox Kitchen

Things to Do : Take in the scenic views, take a scenic drive, hike to Mather Point, explore old Route 66

Day 10: National Parks from Flagstaff to Sedona

Another highlight of our southwest road trip was exploring some of the lesser-known national parks in Arizona.

This included the ruins of Wupatki, the scenery at Sunset Crater Volcano, and the cliff dwellings at Walnut Canyon and Montezuma Castle. All of these are definitely worth a stop while you’re in the area!

Drive Time : 1 hour

Where to Stay : Arabella , Green Tree Inn , Wildflower Inn , Cedars Resort , Sky Ranch Lodge

Where to Eat : Golden Goose, Mariposa, Rene, Oak Creek Brewery, Pump House Station

Things to Do : Wupatki National Monument , Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument , Walnut Canyon National Monument , Montezuma Castle National Monument

Day 11: Sedona to Las Vegas

The red rocks of Sedona are indeed something special. Another place on the list I wasn’t overly excited to visit (especially with so little time), I was pleasantly surprised once again. Maybe you could schedule a later flight from Las Vegas and spend more time in one of Arizona’s gems.

Drive Time : 4 hours

Stops Along the Way : Tuzigoot National Monument , Hoover Dam, Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Things to Do : Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock Hike, Jeep Tours, Devil’s Bridge Trail, Airport Mesa

Day 12: Fly Home from Las Vegas

After another fun night on the strip in Las Vegas, bid the southwest adieu for now.

Safe travels!

Have you ever taken a road trip in the southwest? Tell us about it in the comments.

What to Pack for Your Southwest Road Trip

Packing for a trip to the desert can be tricky. Depending on the time of year, temperatures can range from over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day to 50 degrees once the sun goes down. If you’re visiting in the winter, it may even snow. Here’s a list of things you may need, with some items varying based on the season you decide to visit.

• Reusable Water Bottle : Literally  the most important thing to have in the desert.
• Moisture-wicking Layers : You’ll want short- and long-sleeve shirts to wear underneath your jacket. In the summer, you may also want a tank top . Choose polyester over cotton.
• Jacket : I always have a packable down with me on trips. I also love this new jacket I got a few months ago, as it’s very light yet warm. Synthetic is a good alternative to down if you’re worried about rain or snow.
• Hiking Pants or Shorts : My favorite hiking pants can be found here . As a taller woman, I also love Columbia’s pants because they offer long sizes.
• Hat : Depending on the season, you’ll need a winter hat or summer hat .
• Gloves or Mittens : Gloves are critical if you’re visiting in the winter.
• Wool Socks : Smartwool is my favorite brand for wool socks. Make sure to get wool so your feet stay warm and dry.
• Grippers, Spikes, or Crampons : If you plan to hike in the winter, I strongly recommend grippers for potentially icy trails. Come prepared and avoid the fall!
• Camera : I had my trusty Canon Rebel T5i , my Canon Powershot SX620 , and a GoPro with me on my most recent trip to Arches.
• Tripod : If you’re hoping to take decent photos of the slot canyons, sunsets, or wildlife, I’d strongly recommend carrying a tripod with you.
• Boots : I love my Keens , and will never choose another brand for my everyday boots. In winter, I choose a much warmer pair of Solomon boots .
• Backpack : I brought my North Face pack , but a friend of mine had a water-resistant Patagonia pack I was extremely jealous of.
• Packing Cubes : Never find yourself unorganized or frantically searching for missing items ever again with these . Plus, it’ll help you squeeze more into your bag!
• Travel Scarf : I love the ones with hidden pockets !

Check Out More About Road Trips to National Parks

• 12-Day Florida National Parks Road Trip from Orlando
• Planning a Black Hills Road Trip in South Dakota
• Road Tripping to Utah’s Mighty 5

Pin National Parks in the Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

Riley has been visiting national parks for as long as she can remember. Her newest passion is sharing her love of national parks with the world by planning trips, writing about her travels, and offering advice. One day, Riley hopes to visit all 429 national parks.

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Dang, Riley! I’m bookmarking this for later cause this encompasses everything I wanna do and then some.

Very happy to hear that!

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6 Southwest United States Road Trip Bucket List Destinations

Kenneth teape | 4 hours ago.

The United States is home to some incredible state and national parks. Every region of the country has something unique to offer travelers looking for some adventure .

The southwest is home to many intriguing travel destinations that anyone planning a trip should carve out some time to see. Here are six road trip bucket list spots to add to your next travel itinerary.

Valley of Fire

Valley of Fire State Park is located just south of Overton, Nevada. It received its name from the Aztec Sandstone formations that have a fire-red color that formed from shifting sand dunes more than 150 million years ago.

Sometimes overlooked, Valley of Fire can be made into a day trip for people visiting Las Vegas. Different trails offer people a look at unique petroglyphs and different overlooks in addition to the gorgeous colored rocks.

Cathedral Gorge

Located in Southeastern Nevada, Cathedral Gorge State Park offers visitors a ton of amenities. Camping grounds and picnic areas are open every day so you can plan a visit for any time of the year.

Adventurers will come across formations that make it feel like you’re exploring caves and spires that look straight off of a cathedral, hence the name. The bentonite clay offers some different views and overlooks provide an extended look over the canyon.

Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in the southern part of Utah, with Tropic and Panguitch as the closest cities. What draws people to Bryce Canyon is the hoodoos, a type of rock formation, that has the largest collection in existence in the world.

The Bryce Amphitheater is the most popular stop in the park. Along with the hoodoos, Bryce Canyon is the only national park where you will find Utah prairie dogs calling home.

Zion National Park

Steep red cliffs will leave people in awe at Zion National Park. Located in Utah, hikers are provided with plenty of scenery traveling through the forest that lines the Virgin River. The Emerald Pools are also a popular tourist destination.

232 square miles, the park offers high plateaus and breathtaking 2,000-foot tall Navajo Sandstone cliffs.

Arches National Park

Also located in Utah, Arches National Park may provide visitors with the most picture-esque background a traveler could want. Home to more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, there will be plenty of opportunities to pose and take photos.

Two days are recommended to take in everything that the park has to offer. Delicate Arch is arguably the most popular destination and one that even non-adventurers have likely seen photos of.

Bonneville Salt Flats

What is left of Pleistocene Lake Bonneville is now the Bonneville Salt Flats. Out of the salt flats west of the Great Salt Lake, this one is the largest. Located in Tooele County is the more than 30,000-acre expanse.

If you aren’t looking to physically exert yourself by walking or biking, you can drive across the salt flats when the conditions permit it. Land speed racing, archery and running races regularly are hosted, while photographers and videographers love the landscape as well.

KENNETH TEAPE

Kenneth Teape is an alumnus of SUNY Old Westbury and graduated in 2013 with an Honors Degree in Media Communications with a focus on print journalism. During his time at Old Westbury, he worked for the school newspaper and several online publications, such as Knicks Now, the official website of the New York Knicks, and a self-made website with fellow students, Gotham City Sports News. Kenneth has also been a site expert at Empire Writes Back, Musket Fire, and Lake Show Life within the FanSided Network. He was a contributor to HoopsHabit, with work featured on Bleacher Report and Yardbarker. In addition to his work here, he is a reporter for both NBA Analysis Network and NFL Analysis Network, as well as a writer and editor for Packers Coverage. You can follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @teapester725, or reach him via email at [email protected].

Tunisia Road Trip: The BEST 10 Day Driving Itinerary 2024

If you’re planning a tunisia road trip, you’ve come to the right place. here you can find the best itinerary for 10 days in tunisia..

I spent two months in Tunisia and fell in love with its nature, people, culture, and customs. Tunisia is not a very commonly traveled country, which made it all the more exciting, with many authentic experiences. Within those two months in the country, I went on a one-week Tunisia road trip from Tunis to the northern tip of Africa to the southern deserts of Tozeur and Tatooine.

In This blog post, I’ll create the ideal Tunisia road trip itinerary for you. You’ll learn about not only the best cities to visit (Sousse, Chebika Oasis, Bizerte, etc.), but also where to eat, what to do in each place, and which stops to make along the way. This Tunisia itinerary is varied and will bring you to old Roman ruins, amphitheaters, desert oases, Star Wars filming locations, and small coastal towns along the Mediterranean.

Book a 7-Day Guided Tour of Tunisia

Take this one-week tour around Tunisia with stops including Tunis, Dougga, Kairouan, Chebika, El Djem, Sousse, etc., and experience the magic of Tunisia.

Map of the Ultimate Tunisian Road Trip

Here is a map of the ultimate 10-day Tunisia road trip itinerary. The purple line shows the route, and the blue and green rectangles show the several stops along the way.

Tunisia Road Trip

In this Tunisia road trip itinerary, you’ll find info on renting a car, driving tips, and of course where to visit. This Tunisia itinerary will take you outside of Tunis to explore the varied regions of the country including beaches, deserts, and the 4th holiest city in the world for Muslims.

This itinerary does not include activities within the capital city of Tunis, such as visiting the Carthage archaeological site . However, this Tunisia road trip itinerary will begin and end at the Tunis-Carthage airport for ease.

Read More: 25 Things to do in Tunis

While this Tunisia road trip itinerary is for 10 days, you can easily alter it to create your own itinerary for 5 days in Tunisia, or one week in Tunisia, depending on your interests, and how much time you have.

@nickipoststravelstuff A quick review of our Tunisia road trip! #Tunisia #chebikaoasis #tozeur #tunisia #tunisiatraveler #travelblogger #tunisiatravel #tunisiaroadtrip #tunisiaItinerary ♬ When I See You – Gabriel Albuquerqüe & Piano House

Tunisia Road Trip Itinerary Overview: 10 Days

➡️ Day 1:  Tunis – Bizerte – Ras Angela – Testour ➡️ Day 2:  Testour – Dougga – Bulla Regia – El Kef ➡️ Day 3:  El Kef – Subaytilah – Tozeur ➡️ Day 4:  Tozeur – Mides Oasis – Chebika Oasis – Tamerza – Mos Espa – Lars Homestead ➡️ Day 5:  Tozeur – Chott el Djerid – Sidi Idriss Hotel – Toujane ➡️ Day 6:  Toujane – Ksar Hallouf – Ksar Hadada – Ghomrassen – Tatouine ➡️ Day 7:  Tatouine – Ksar Ouled Soltane – Douiret – Chenini – Tatouine ➡️ Day 8:  Tatouine – El Djem – Mahdia ➡️ Day 9:  Mahdia – Kairouan – Sousse ➡️ Day 10:  Sousse – Hammamet – Tunis

Read More: 31 Things to Do in Tunisia

📍Road Trip Day 1: Tunis – Bizerte – Ras Angela – Testour

• Total hours driving: 3 hours and 40 minutes
• Total kilometers driven: 212 kilometers
• Overview: We will begin the road trip by picking up the rental car at the Tunis-Carthage airport as early as possible. From Tunis, drive north to Bizerte. Spend the morning in Bizerte before heading to Ras Angela, the most northern tip of Africa. Once you’re done, you’ll pass through Bizerte on the way to Testour, where you’ll sleep for the night.

Looking for a Tunis guide? Check out my Tunis guide on the Thatch app.

Morning: Bizerte

Bizerte is only 50 minutes north of Tunis. It’s best to leave Tunis before rush hour (8 am). Bizerte is the most northern city in the entire continent of Africa. Technically it is a city, but the city center is very approachable and easy to walk around. I suggest parking the car for a few hours and walking around town on foot.

What to eat in Bizerte

Bizerte is well known for lablebi sandwiches. You can learn all about Tunisia street food here . There are a ton of small street-side stands for lablebi sandwiches, either in a mobile cart or a fixed location. We chose the place with the longest line and we weren’t disappointed. It was just 3 TND (1 USD) for a lablebi sandwich.

What to do in Bizerte

The Bizerte city center has a great market that spans several blocks. Take a stroll through the market to smell the incense, see the live chickens, and buy some pottery. Bizerte is the best city in Tunisia to purchase traditional pottery as you can find the lowest prices here.

After the market, make your way to the old port of Bizerte . There you can find an enclosed waterway full of small boats. On each side of the port, you can find brightly colored buildings, reminiscent of Burano in Venice.

The port has cafes, restaurants, tea stands (make sure to add nuts to your tea), and street musicians all around. The vibe is lively. Have a coffee or a snack in this area to soak up the atmosphere.

Once you’ve seen the port, head inside the old medina. The medina of Bizerte is much more chill and residential than that of Tunis or Sousse . There is no souk inside this medina. It is more for everyday living. But the small alleyways painted blue and white are inspiring.

@nickipoststravelstuff Bizerte is such a dream #bizerte #Tunisia #capangela ♬ Link in bio x – Dominic Wright

Afternoon: Ras Angela

When you’re ready to leave Bizerte, head to Ras Angela (also seen as Cap Angela). This is the most northern point in the entire continent of Africa. It’s about 30 minutes north of Bizerte, along mostly paved roads. The last 5-10 minutes are along dirt roads.

There were a lot of puddles and potholes, so we parked our car on the side of the dirt road and walked the rest of the way.

Marking the official spot of the northern point, you can find a large silver sculpture of the map of Africa. However, you can explore all around the area along the cliffs of the coastline. We saw many people in trucks offroading here. Visiting Ras Angela was one of my favorite stops on this Tunisia road trip.

@nickipoststravelstuff This is how we got to Cap Angela, the most northern point on the African continent! It’s in Tunisia 🇹🇳 #tunisia #tunisiatraveller #travelintunisia #travelblogger #tunisiatravel #bizerte #rasangela🇹🇳 ♬ Africa (Toto) – Asunción Blues

Evening: Testour

In order to reach Testour from Ras Angela, you’ll need to pass through Bizerte once more. From Bizerte, the drive to Testour takes 2 hours. Testour is a small town so it can easily be seen in just a few hours.

What Testour is known for

Testour is famous for 3 things: pomegranates, dairy, and the mosque. You can get amazingly fresh pomegranate juice, various kinds of cheese, and kinds of butter (goat and cow) at nearly every store front you pass on the main street. Make sure to try them all.

As you walk down the main street, you’ll eventually come to a large plaza where men sit in the sunshine drinking mint tea and coffee. Have a seat here and enjoy the local atmosphere.

@nickipoststravelstuff On our road trip around Tunisia, we stopped at a cute little town called Testour, famous for cheese and pomegranates. #tunisia #tunisiatraveller #travelintunisia #travelblogger #tunisiatravel #testour @Arthur Costa Manso ♬ original sound – Nicki Post

After your warm beverage, head over to the mosque, which you can see from the plaza. This mosque is famous for a few reasons. The minaret was created with traditional Andalusian architecture. It has both Islamic symbols on it, as well as the star of David for the Jewish religion.

The minaret also has a clock that functions in the reverse order, going counterclockwise. Testour is one of the best small towns along this Tunisia road trip itinerary.

Where to stay in Testour

There are no guesthouses in Testour on booking.com or Vrbo . However, you can search Google Maps for “Dar,” and several guesthouses will show up. You can go directly to the guesthouse to inquire about vacancies. If it is off-season, you can probably negotiate the price.

The one that seems to be the most legit is called Sabih’s House Testour (+21621097755).

Going to Tunisia soon? Get Ready at a glance: Get travel medical insurance with SafeyWing . Book your stay with Booking.com . Check Flights with Skyscanner or Hopper . Rent a car with RentalCars.com . Download the Airalo app and get a Tunisian eSIM . Take a tour with GetYourGuide or Viator . Have a 1:1 consultation with me in advance!

📍Road Trip Day 2: Testour – Dougga – Bulla Regia – El Kef

• Total hours driving: 3 hours
• Total kilometers driven: 161 kilometers
• Overview: Today we leave Testour in the morning and head out on a day of old Roman Ruins and villages. You’ll visit both Dougga and Bulla Regia. Then you’ll end the day in El Kef, where you’ll spend the night.

Morning: Dougga

The drive from Testour to Dougga is just 30 minutes. The entrance price to the Dougga Ruins is 8 TND (3 USD). Allow 2-3 hours here.

Dougga is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of Tunisia’s best-preserved Roman Ruins sites. Dougga was originally the capital of the Numidian kingdom, but was eventually taken over by the Romans.

The Roman-style architecture is present everywhere you look, with the arched porticos and columns. You can find the old town hall, which is still pretty intact, as well as the site of the old market and living quarters, amphitheater, etc.

The Dougga area is spread over several acres, but the main section is on top of a hill. It feels like going back in time as you make your way up the large cobblestone passageways and walk past ancient stone structures.

All information at the site of Dougga states it was a Roman village, and all information online states the same. However, if you post about Dougga on TikTok, expect random users to get upset at you because “it is Carthaginian, not Roman.”

@nickipoststravelstuff After Testour, we went to the ancient town of Dougga! It is massive and covers 75 hectares of land. It was really cool to see it basically on our own. There weren’t a lot of other people around! #testour #dougga #tunisia #tunisiatraveller #travelintunisia #travelblogger #tunisiatravel #bizerte ♬ original sound – Nicki Post

Afternoon: Bulla Regia

The drive from Dougga to Bulla Regia takes just over one hour. Bulla Regia is another site where you can find Roman Ruins. This area was originally a Punic and Berber town but was annexed by the Romans after they conquered Carthage. Here you can find several old structures very much intact still.

Bulla Regia is smaller than Dougga and much flatter. Several of the mosaics that were originally found in Bulla Regia are now stored in the Bardo Museum in Tunis .

If you are not in the mood to see multiple archeological sites today, you can skip this one and go straight to El Kef. Bulla Regia is beautiful but the size and quality of the structures in Dougga make it slightly more impressive.

Evening: El Kef

El Kef lies one hour south of Bulla Regia and one hour southwest of Dougga. El Kef is a fairly small town, and you can see everything important to see in just a few hours.

What is El Kef known for

El Kef is known for olive oil. It is in the center of the olive-producing region, and you can find bottles of homemade olive oil in recycled bottles at many shops.

What to do in El Kef

Walk around El Kef’s cobblestone streets and see the life happening. It is not a big town, but there are several shops, cafes, and restaurants. Because El Kef is not super large, you can easily get around on foot to visit the church, mosque, one small plot of land with some Roman ruins, and best of all, the Kasbah of El Kef.

The Kasbah is free to enter and if you speak French or Arabic, the man at the front gate will take you around the fortress for a free tour. Fortunately, we had our French Canadian friend with us to translate.

The kasbah has seen many changes over the centuries. It was once an Ottoman fort, a French fortress, a prison, etc. There are incredible views of the area from up here. We went at sunset and it was ideal.

Where to eat in El Kef

When you go to El Kef, you absolutely must eat at Chez Fatima . But the important thing to remember is that you need to make reservations in advance. Fatima is a kind woman who cooks delicious traditional meals in her home, so she needs to know how many people to cook for in advance. You can contact her on Instagram or call her: +21655020479.

If you’re unable to eat at Chez Fatima, a good local restaurant is Kachkech . You can get delicious, traditional meals at a simple restaurant. This may be one of your best meals along this Tunisia road trip.

Where to stay in El Kef

Because you are driving, it will not be difficult to find housing in El Kef. We stopped at several hotels on the main road entering El Kef to check prices and see what the places looked like. You have options both outside the city center and right in the center. The hotel below is the best we found.

Maison D’hôte Dar Saida

We stayed in this guesthouse and loved it. You can go to the rooftop to catch the sunset and have an amazing city view. The owners are a local married couple, and the guesthouse is cozy. They served a beautiful breakfast in the morning. They were very accommodating and helped us with everything we needed. Everything was within walking distance and we could find street parking easily.

Book NOW to stay in El Kef’s BEST guesthouse

📍Road Trip Day 3: El Kef – Subaytilah – Tozeur

• Total hours driving: 5 hours
• Total kilometers driven: 342 kilometers
• Overview: Today is a longer driving day, with a stop at one more ancient Roman village called Subaytilah. From there we’ll head to Tozeur, our first desert stop along our Tunisia road trip itinerary. You’ll spend 2 days in Tozeur and use it as a base to explore the area. If you’re a big Star Wars fan, make sure to read the Star Wars Filming Guide in Tunisia , as you may want to add some extra stops in this area.

Morning: Subaytilah

Subaytilah (or Sbeitla ) is 2 hours south of El Kef, so make sure you leave in the morning to get an early start on the day. In Subaytilah, you can find the Byzantine ruins of Sufetula. Hundreds of years before the Byzantines arrived, it was a Roman state, and you can see the ruins of a Roman forum. The temples and forums here are very well preserved.

Afternoon/Evening: Tozeur

After visiting the Byzantine/Roman ruins of Subaytilah, head further south to Tozeur. The drive between the two cities is 3 hours so get your drinks and snacks prepared as you enter the desert on this long stretch of road.

Tozeur is one of the main cities of the deserts in Southern Tunisia. It’s the perfect place to base yourself to visit the surrounding area. You’ll be spending two nights in Tozeur on this Tunisia road trip.

What to do in Tozeur

The appeal of Tozeur is not so much what is inside the city, but what you can see outside of the city. That said, Tozeur has a covered market where you can find jalabas (desert clothing), carpets, pottery, etc. I purchased 2 carpets in Tozeur and I love them. The market is not inside the medina like it is in many Tunisian cities. The medina in Tozeur is mostly residential with a few shops.

The best place to visit inside the Tozeur Medina is a place called Café Berbère ⵜⴰⴱⴰⵔⵏⴻⵜ ⵜⴰⵎⴰⵣⵉⵖⵜ (those characters are from the Berber script). At this cafe, you can relax after the long drive, have some mint tea with nuts, and try out the sheesha. There is a large outdoor patio, as well as a cute indoor space with a large window overlooking a palm tree garden.

Outside of Tozeur, you can visit several oases and Star Wars filming locations (on the itinerary for tomorrow).

@nickipoststravelstuff We stayed two nights in the town of Tozeur on our Tunisian road trip #Tunisia #tunisiatraveller #travelintunisia #travelblogger #tozeur #CapCut ♬ original sound – Nicki Post

Where to stay in Tozeur

Tozeur is one of the larger cities in the desert, so there are several options for sleeping. The center of Tozeur can be a bit hectic. We stayed outside the main city center in a quiet neighborhood because it had loads of parking, and it was just a 5-minute drive to the center.

Résidence El Arich

This is one of the more affordable options for hotels in Tozeur. You can park your car here, and it’s only a 5-minute drive from the town center. Breakfast is included.

BOOK NOW for your stay at this BUDGET hotel in Tozeur

This is an amazingly beautiful place to stay that feels like a retreat in the desert, while still being within walking distance to everything you need. There is an outdoor swimming pool and breakfast is included.

TREAT YOURSELF at this stunning desert oasis hotel

Dar Saida Beya

The Dar Saida Beya is pure luxury in the heart of the desert. There is a spa, hammam, restaurant, and lounge. Unfortunately, there is no parking on site. Breakfast is included.

BOOK NOW as rooms go FAST at the Dar Saida Beya

📍Road Trip Day 4: Tozeur – Mides Oasis – Chebika Oasis – Tamerza – Mos Espa – Lars Homestead (optional)

• Total hours driving: 4 hours
• Total kilometers driven: 237 kilometers
• Overview: Today our Tunisia road trip brings us a day of oases and deserts. First head to Mides Oasis, near the Algerian border. From there you’ll make your way back towards Tozeur with stops at the Chebika Oasis and Tamerza. Then loop around and head towards Mos Espa, which is one of the Star Wars film sets. If you still want more adventure, you can head further out to the Lars Homestead, another Star Wars filming location . End the night back in Tozeur.

Morning: Mides Oasis

The Mides Oasis is the closest you can get to the Algerian border in this area. The drive from Tozeur takes just over one hour. The main attraction at the Mides Oasis is the massive canyon that crosses through the area.

You can walk along the edge of the canyon and see its depths. There are vendors selling stones and Tuareg jewelry in this area, as well as a few cafes along the cliffs. You can also take a stroll through the date tree gardens.

You will see the remnants of the old town of Mides, which was relocated in 1969 after a massive flood passed through the region, destroying homes and killing many people.

You can spend 1-2 hours here.

@nickipoststravelstuff Mides Oasis was beautiful! ♬ Walking Around – Instrumental Version – Eldar Kedem

Morning: Chebika Oasis

The Chebika Oasis is 30 minutes south of Mides along the same road. You will pass by Chebika on your way to Mides Oasis. Several viewing points along this road are worthy of a stop.

At the Chebika Oasis, you can find a big contrast between greenery and desert land. Once you park, you can walk the large loop that takes you through the entire area. You’ll first walk along a passageway with several green palm and date trees.

A river bed is running through this section, though we were told it hasn’t rained there for several years, so it’s all dried out. The rainy season here is December, January, and February. Keep following the path to reach a small waterfall and pond.

If you continue along the path, you’ll cross over a small river, and eventually start going uphill to the top of the mountain overlooking the entire oasis. Below this mountaintop, you’ll be able to look down and see the remnants of the old village of Chebika that was destroyed during the flood of 1969.

Continue along this loop and you’ll go right through the old village and end up back where you started at the parking lot. You can spend 1-2 hours here.

You don’t need a guide as you can walk the trail alone. But if you want, you can hire a local guide to provide extra information. There will most likely be someone to greet you in the parking lot to ask if you want a guide.

@nickipoststravelstuff This is Chebika Oasis #chebikaoasis #tozeur #tunisia #tunisiatraveler #travelblogger #tunisiatravel #tunisiaroadtrip #tunisiaItinerary #adventuretravel #desert #oasis ♬ original sound – Nicki Post

Afternoon: Tamerza (Tamaghza)

After Chebika, continue backtracking on the main road you took to reach the other oases. Tamaghza (or Tamerza) is 20 minutes south of Chebika. You can visit both the Tamerza Oasis and the Tamerza Cascade. The cascade is not that big, but it’s nice to see. If you’re keen, you can take a walk into the canyon as well.

In the parking area, there are several shops and a cafe. This is where I tried Berber pizza and juice from palm trees (not coconut juice), and they were both delicious. A great place to have a quick, good, and affordable lunch.

Late Afternoon: Mos Espa

After lunch near the Tamerza waterfall, we’re going to make a big loop around the salt flats, and head one hour away to Mos Espa, one of the Star Wars filming locations . There is a paved road all the way there, but you will be driving through the middle of the desert for the second half of the drive. Eventually, you’ll arrive at what feels like the middle of nowhere. The Mos Espa site was a filming location only and has no connection with Tunisian history or culture.

Mos Espa is a small village in the middle of the desert, made up of several small structures made of wood and what feels like thick paper mache. There are several men of business here, selling dolls, stones, toys, camel rides, and quad rides into the desert. They can be pushy, so you should be prepared for this.

One guy followed me around the site and even pushed me against his sitting camel to take a photo. I can only assume he would have asked for money to take the photo if my friend hadn’t rushed over and told him in French to leave me alone.

If you do want to go deeper into the Ong Jemal desert, then feel free to hire these guys on camels or quads to do just that. I wasn’t a huge Star Wars fan before going to Mos Espa, but I still really enjoyed seeing it.

@nickipoststravelstuff On our one week road trip, we stopped at many of the Star Wars filming locations in Tunisia. The majority are in Tozeur and Tatouine. #tunisiatraveller #travelintunisia #travelblogger #tunisiatravel #starwars #starwarsfan #starwarstiktok #starwarstunisia ♬ Star Wars, Episode IV “A New Hope”: Main Theme – John Williams

Mos Espa Parking area

The parking area of Mos Espa is marked by short grey poles. The majority of these poles are either missing or broken, so it can be difficult to assess exactly where they are when leaving the parking area. For this reason, I accidentally hit one and damaged our rental car. Fortunately, we had rental car insurance so it worked out in the end.

Evening: (if time allows) Lars Homestead

If you feel tired at this point, just head back to Tozeur to relax for the evening. But if you’re looking for some more adventure, or you’re a Star Wars nerd, head next to the Lars Homestead.

The Lars Homestead is located just 25 minutes south of Mos Espa, along the edge of the Chott el Djerid salt flat. The Lars Homestead is where Shmi Skywalker lived when she remarried Lars, and where Luke Skywalker grew up with his aunt and uncle.

Night: Tozeur

Head back to your accommodation in Tozeur for the evening to relax and have dinner. Tomorrow you’ll cross the Chott el Djerid desert/salt flats.

📍Road Trip Day 5: Tozeur – Chott el Djerid – Sidi Idriss Hotel – Toujane

• Total hours driving: 3 hours and 45 minutes
• Total kilometers driven: 255 kilometers
• Overview: Today on the Tunisia road trip, we will leave Tozeur and cross the Chott el Djerid desert/salt flat, make a stop at the Sidi Idriss Hotel to see Luke Skywalker’s childhood home. Then you will spend the night in Toujane, an ancient Amazigh village.

Morning: Chott el Djerid

If you look on Google Maps, Chott el Djerid looks like a large blue lake. In reality, there is no water here. It is a large desert/salt flat. There is one main road that passes through the center of Chott el Djerid, connecting Tozeur and Douz. Along this highway, you’ll see many kitschy roadside attractions, such as hills of salt with international flags on them, or punny jokes.

I don’t suggest driving out into the smaller roads unless you have an SUV as it is possible to get stuck. It is an interesting drive across the desert. The day we went was cold, windy, and rainy, but we still enjoyed the adventure.

We stopped for lunch at a cute little food stand on the edge of Douz, called Le_Bon_Jour_12. It’s right off the main road, so you won’t be adding too much extra time to your drive.

Afternoon: Sidi Idriss Hotel

The Sidi Idriss Hotel is the location of the Lars Homestead interior from Star Wars, where Luke Skywalker grew up. Visitors are allowed to enter, even if they don’t plan to sleep at the hotel.

There are some gimmicky Star Wars decorations around but it’s cool to be able to look down into these old Troglodyte dwellings. If you’re a big Star Wars fan, you also have the option to sleep here for a night.

Evening: Toujane

For the sake of fitting more into this Tunisian road trip, we’re going to continue 35 minutes east from the Sidi Idriss Hotel to the town of Toujane. Toujane is a village built into the mountainside that was once occupied by Berber tribes. There was also significance during WWII, as it was a German-held village.

Where to stay in Toujane

There are not an abundance of hotel options, but there are a few locally-owned guest houses, so you have the opportunity to support the local people.

Dar Fatma Toujane

Here you can stay inside of the traditional Berber cave homes on the side of the mountain. This is an interesting cultural experience. Breakfast is included. The rooms are cozy, and there is a terrace that allows you to look out into the surrounding nature. Prices are very reasonable.

Stay in this traditional Berber home, BOOK NOW

📍Road Trip Day 6: Toujane – Ksar Hallouf – Ksar Hadada – Ghomrassen – Tatouine

• Total hours driving: 2 hours
• Total kilometers driven: 98 kilometers
• Overview: Day 6 of the Tunisia road trip is a day spent visiting ancient grain storage facilities (ghorfas) that were owned by the nomadic Berber people in the region. Many of these ksars (fortified structures) inspired the planet Tatooine in Star Wars. You’ll spend the night in the town of Tatouine, where you’ll stay for two nights. As you drive through the desert roads in this area, keep in mind that it is common for sand to blow over the roads. Sometimes there are large sand piles in the middle of the road, so stay alert.

Morning: Ksar Hallouf

Ksar Hallouf is only 45 minutes south of Toujane. This was the first ksar that I visited during my road trip in Tunisia, and I was completely in awe. Ksara Hallouf sits at the top of a small hill. There is parking at the top next to the entrance, which is completely free. When you walk in, you’ll find yourself inside a small village, surrounded on all side by the ghorfa structures, which the Berbers used to store grain.

There is a bathroom and a small cafe inside the area. These ghorfas have not been renovated like some in other areas, but they are still intact, and you can climb on them and go up the stairs. The day we arrived, it was windy and rainy, but when we went inside the structures, it was actually warm and completely blocked out the wind and cold. Plan to spend 30-60 minutes here.

@nickipoststravelstuff Ksar Hallouf ♬ In the Forest – Lesfm & Olexy

Late Morning: Ksar Hadada Historic Ghorfa Village

Ksar Hadada is another ancient Berber grain storage site, however, this one is not free to enter. It costs 2 TND (0.60 USD) per person. The front half of Ksar Hadada has been renovated and the small rooms have been converted into a hotel. You don’t have to pay the 2 TND if you stay at the hotel.

There were several scenes from Star Wars filmed here, as it was the slave quarters on Planet Tatouine where Shmi and Anakin Skywalker lived. The area is quite large, and you’re free to wander around. The back half of Ksar Hadada looks older and is not renovated like the front section. There is a cafe and bathroom inside you can use. Plan to spend 45-60 minutes here.

@nickipoststravelstuff Ksar Hadada ♬ Star Wars (Epic Main Theme) – Samuel Kim

Afternoon: Ghomrassen

Fifty minutes south of Ksar Hadada, you’ll find Ghomrassen. This is a small desert town in the governate of Tataouine. You can see remnants of an old village in and on top of the plateau at Ghomrassen Ancienne . If you’re feeling tired or not in the mood, this is the place you could skip and go directly to the town of Tataouine. It’s interesting, but not as cool as Ksar Hallouf and Ksar Hadada if I’m being honest.

Evening: Tataouine

Tataouine is the capital city of the governate of Tataouine and lies 30 minutes south of Ghomrassen. It is a great place to base yourself to see the surrounding area and monuments, but the town itself doesn’t have much to offer. It is dusty and the traffic gets pretty bad during rush hour.

Where to eat in Tataouine

We accidentally stumbled upon a place called Pizzeria Lela Meriem , that had the best chicken escalope I had in all of Tunisia. It is just a “fast food Tunisian restaurant,” but the food was fresh, delicious, and affordable.

Where to stay in Tataouine

The city of Tataouine is not beautiful. It is busy, chaotic, and dusty. We stayed in a family home just outside of the city center and loved it. I suggest staying outside of the center to have a calm and peaceful time.

Dar Ettawfik

This is a family-owned guesthouse outside the center of town. Make reservations in advance so they have time to prepare dinner for you. Tawfik and Karima have three children, and everyone is lovely and social. You will have an authentic experience here and have the chance to meet a lovely local family. There is parking inside the fence so your car will be safe. The family lives upstairs, and you will have the entire bottom apartment which includes a kitchen, bathroom, and several beds.

Have an authentic local experience and stay at Dar Ettawfik

📍Road Trip Day 7: Tatouine – Ksar Ouled Soltane – Douiret – Chenini – Tatouine

• Total kilometers driven: 100 kilometers
• Overview: This is another day spent around the governate of Tatouine, exploring more ksars and ancient Amazigh villages. You’ll return to Tatouine once more at the end of the day. The map below shows the itinerary for the day with each stop marked. There is also a shortcut between Ksar Ouled Soltane and Douiret, so you don’t have to return to Tataouine on the main roads. It is marked on the map.

Morning: Ksar Ouled Soltane

It only takes 30 minutes to reach Ksar Ouled Soltane from the town of Tataouine. Ksar Ouled Soltane is easily the coolest and best-preserved Berber ghorfa village that I have seen in all of Tunisia. You can park on the street next to the entrance.

When you first enter, you will see very tall ghorfas with stairs leading to the top that you can climb on. When you push through the large wooden doors, you will enter a massive courtyard, surrounded by tall ghorfa structures on all sides.

It is completely free to enter Ksar Ouled Soltane. There is a small Star Wars-themed cafe and a few guys selling paintings. We were the only tourists there so we had the place to ourselves, to look around and take photos. Expect to stay for at least an hour.

@nickipoststravelstuff This place is the coolest ♬ Interstellar on Piano – Andy Morris

Late Morning: Douiret

To reach Douiret, head back north in the direction of Tataouine. There is a shortcut at Ksar Daghara, so you don’t need to return all the way to Tataouine. The turn for the shortcut in Ksar Daghara is at 32°50’47.2″N 10°28’34.3″E . After a couple of minutes, you’ll pass by the small Ksar Daghara . You can stop here if you want.

The small scenic detour ends at Ksar Ouled Debbab , which is another small ksar that you can make a quick stop at. Then continue southwest on the small road towards Douiret .

The area of Douiret is an ancient Berber village that was built on top of a hill. It is now mostly in ruins, but there is still a lot to see. You can climb on top of the rocks until you reach the peak, which has a small path in a circle with many small rooms off of it. The views of the surrounding nature is incredible from the top of Douiret.

@nickipoststravelstuff Douiret was a cool stop ♬ Paris – 3Hzwave

Where to stay in Douiret

If you want to stay in an alternative location in this area, I suggest staying a night in Douiret. There are a couple of renovated hotels built into the side of the mountain from the old structures. It is a very peaceful place, and if you want something calm, this is a great place to stay to find silence.

BOOK NOW and stay in an ancient Berber village at Gîte Douiret or Chez Raouf

Afternoon: Chenini

To reach Chenini from Douiret, continue along the small road for about 30 minutes and drive through some incredible desert scenery. You do not need to return to Tatouine first like Google Maps will guide you to.

Chenini is an ancient Amazigh village that is built into the side of a mountain. It is very impressive. There is a white mosque at the top of the hill that is a newer addition to the town in the past few decades.

The entrance is free, and you can park anywhere you find a space. But be aware that the locals can be pushy about providing a guided service. It is your choice whether you want to use a guide or not, but know that they might be a little aggressive at first.

You can easily spend 1-2 hours here walking around. The town stretches around the sides of the winding mountain and there are several paths to walk on, views to see, and staircases to climb up. Chenini is one of the coolest desert villages along the Tunisia road trip.

@nickipoststravelstuff Ugh Chenini is so cool ♬ Solas x Interstellar – Gabriel Albuquerqüe

Evening: Tatouine

After visiting the ancient Berber sites of this area, head back to Tatouine for the night. Enjoy dinner with the family at Dar Ettawfik , or around the Tataouine town center.

📍Road Trip Day 8: Tatouine – El Djem – Mahdia

• Total hours driving: 4 hours 35 minutes
• Total kilometers driven: 422 kilometers
• Overview: Today will be another long driving day as we head back north and leave the southern Tunisian deserts and land of Tataouine behind us. We’ll stop at the El Jem amphitheater and finish the day at our first coastal town of Mahdia.

Morning: El Djem

I suggest leaving Tataouine early in the morning as it is a 4-hour drive to El Djem (El Jem) Amphitheater. El Jem is the name of the town where this famous amphitheater resides. The town of El Jem doesn’t have much to offer, and the theater is the main attraction. It costs 12 TND (4 USD) to enter.

There is a free parking lot on the opposite side of the main entrance. Park your car and follow the restaurant-lined path to the entrance.

This amphitheater is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was built in 238 AD by the Roman Empire, just over 300 years after the largest and most famous coliseum of Rome (built in 72 BC), which it was modeled after. El Jem is the largest amphitheater in North Africa and the second largest in the world.

@nickipoststravelstuff This is El Jem ♬ green to blue (Sped Up) – Aurenth

If you mention on social media that El Jem is Roman, expect lots of pushback from internet warriors “informing” you that it is Carthaginian. This is despite all available information both online and on the site stating it is indeed Roman. The movie Gladiator was filmed here.

Where to eat in El Djem

There are several restaurants all around the perimeter of the amphitheater. Directly in front is a more expensive restaurant geared towards tourists, called Restaurant El Hana , with a great view of the amphitheater. If you’re looking for something more affordable, there are several Tunisian fast food restaurants all around the perimeter selling chapatis, mlawi, etc.

Afternoon/Evening: Mahdia

Mahdia lies 45 minutes northeast of El Djem, along Tunisia’s coastline. There are two parts of Mahdia: the newer hotels along the beach, and the old town inside the medina walls in a small peninsula. I suggest visiting the old part as it is much more cultural and interesting.

You can easily see the interesting parts of Mahdia within a few hours. Everything is easily walkable.

What to do in Mahdia

The main monument is the Skifa el Kahla which is the entrance to the old city. You can go up to the rooftop via the museum next door. From the terrace, you have a great view of the entire old city and the sea on 3 sides.

There is a path that goes around the perimeter of the peninsula. Along this path, you can see the ribat, the old cemetery, crumbling city walls, the peak at Cap Afrique, and the I ❤️ MAHDIA sign. Inside the medina, you can visit the many shops, restaurants, and the main mosque. There is a massive market on Fridays.

Read More: What to do in Mahdia

@nickipoststravelstuff Mahdia, Tunisia ♬ Emotional – Larra Backsound

Where to stay in Mahdia

There are a few areas to stay in Mahdia. You can stay in the more modern beachy area to the north of the old town, or you can stay in the center of the old town. I think the small boutique hotels in the center are cute and worth it, especially if you have just one night here.

Hotel Dar Al Madina

This beautiful hotel is located in the center of town in the heart of the medina. Breakfast, parking, and wifi are included. An airport shuttle is available. The rooms are beautiful, clean, and well-maintained. Very reasonable prices. There is also a rooftop terrace with great sunlight. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. Free parking nearby.

Check rates and availability  for this hotel in the Mahdia Medina  HERE

📍Road Trip Day 9: Mahdia – Kairouan – Sousse

• Total hours driving: 2 hours 34 minutes
• Total kilometers driven: 157 kilometers
• Overview: We will start and end the day at a Tunisian coastal town, with a visit to a holy city in between. The total drive time is only 2.5 hours, but I suggest getting an early start if possible because there is a lot to see and do in Kairouan.

Morning: Kairouan

Kairouan is 1.5 hours to the west of Mahdia. It is Tunisia’s holiest city and the fourth holiest city in Islam after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem. This is a city known for its handmade copper goods (trays, cups, etc.), as well as the filming location in Indiana Jones that was meant to represent Cairo.

What to do in Kairouan

You can see the majority of things to see in Kairouan in about 3-4 hours, including the basins, Grand Mosque, souk, etc.

Read More: What to do in a day in Kairouan

@nickipoststravelstuff Kairouan is a beautiful city ♬ original sound – Nicki Post

Afternoon/Evening: Sousse

After Kairouan, head back to the coastline. This time to Tunisia’s third largest city, Sousse. I spent one month in Sousse and got to know it pretty well. While it is a large city, the majority of things to see are in the old city walls and can be seen within a few hours.

What to do in Sousse

There are 2 great museums in Sousse, a large souk inside the medina, a beautiful ribat, and a walk along the sea, plus much more.

If you’re looking for a great meal, Restaurant Café Seles is Sousse’s top-rated place to eat. It is inside the medina, near the archaeological museum, with great views of the city walls and the old town.

Read more: What to do in Sousse

@nickipoststravelstuff One month in Sousse ♬ original sound – summer songs<333

Where to stay in Sousse

There are two main areas to stay in Sousse- inside the medina in traditional guesthouses, or along the beach. Many of the beach hotels and resorts are further up north in the Khazema neighborhood. For just one night, I suggest staying in the Medina.

Résidence Le Monaco Sousse

This guesthouse is located directly on the beach with many rooms with a sea view. It is a short walk to the Medina and city center. The rooms are clean and spacious, and many rooms even have a kitchen. There is also a swimming pool.

Rooms go fast!  Click here to book the Résidence Le Monaco Sousse  ASAP!

This guesthouse is located in the center of the Sousse Medina. It’s a perfect location to explore the area. It is inside a typical Tunisian home with amazing decorations and walls covered in tile. Breakfast is included.

Click HERE  to check availability for the Dar Badiaa. Rooms go fast so  book soon!

📍Road Trip Day 10: Sousse – Hammamet – Tunis

• Total kilometers driven: 162 kilometers
• Overview: This is the last day of the 10-day Tunisia road trip, but we’ll fill it with one more stop to Hammamet, Tunisia’s most touristed beach town. Then you will drive back to Tunis to return your Tunisian rental car at the Tunis-Carthage airport.

Morning: Hammamet

Hammamet is one of the most visited beach towns in Tunisia. Because of this, several hotels and restaurants cater to foreign guests. Many Tunisians also holiday here.

What to do in Hammamet

The majority of things to see in Hammamet can be found near the water surrounding the medina. You can take a walk along the coastline, visit the beach, have a mint tea on top of the ribat, or go shopping in the souk. can easily see everything in Hammamet in just a few hours.

Read More: What to do in Hammamet

Afternoon/Evening: Tunis

Once you’re ready to leave Hammamet, head back towards Tunis, Tunisia’s capital city. It is just a 50-minute drive if you’re able to avoid rush hour traffic in Tunis. Return your Tunisian rental car to the airport.

If you have a flight today, make sure to give yourself additional time at the airport to return your car just in case. If you have a few more days in Tunis, you can easily take a Bolt/yellow taxi to your Tunis accommodation.

Read More: Check out this complete guide for what to do in Tunis.

Extend your Road Trip to Tunisia

I tried to include all the major cities and sites to visit in this 10-day Tunisian road trip. However, if you have more than 10 days, you may want to extend your trip. If that’s the case, I suggest spending a few days on the island of Djerba . This island is famous for having a large Jewish population, as well as beautiful holiday hotels and guesthouses.

Beyond Djerba, I suggest these other Tunisia beach towns:

Read More: Tunisia’s 7 Best Beach Towns

If you’re looking for cities in the northern mountainous region, I suggest:

• Ayn Darahim
• Houichette Beach
• Zriba Olya ⵣⵔⵉⴱⴰ ⴰⵎⵇⵔⴰⵏ (ancient ksar)
• Takrouna (ancient village)

For more Tunisian desert locations, I suggest:

• Jebil National Park

Renting a Car in Tunisia

I spent two months in the country, and the one week that we rented a car for a Tunisian road trip, was my favorite week. We had so much freedom to go where we wanted, see what we wanted, and spend as much or as little time as we wanted at each place.

I wish that we had more time because there is so much to see in Tunisia. Renting a car in Tunisia is well worth the money. I suggest using the company RentalCars.com as we had a really good experience with them.

Read more: The complete guide to renting a car in Tunisia in 2024

Tunisia Road Trip Tips

Here are a few tips to keep in mind while on your Tunisian road trip. We learned these tips along the way, but it would have been helpful to know them in advance to prepare ourselves.

• Get car insurance (it’s worth it)
• There are lots of potholes and some dirt roads along the path
• Many police checkpoints , but they usually waved us by
• Bring your passports (for checkpoints and hotels)
• Make sure you have cash . It’s not always easy to find an ATM in the south and many places will not accept credit cards.
• Nobody asked for my driver’s license and I was never asked for my international license
• It gets cold at night in the desert
• It can get rainy in the winter, so make sure to bring a rain jacket
• It’s hard to find alcohol – bring from the bigger cities if it matters to you (we found beer/wine in Carrefour in Tozeur)
• There is less fresh food the more south you, with not as many veggies
• Don’t go on sand without an off-road car
• Tunisians often straddle both lanes at once, not allowing you to pass them

Get Travel Medical Insurance

If you’re planning to travel soon, make sure to get your travel medical insurance with SafetyWing. The digital Nomad Insurance is built by nomads, for nomads, so, of course, you’re covered even if you don’t have a return flight. 

You can pay monthly, travel indefinitely, and explore anywhere in the world without needing to specify your next destination. The only extra cost is when you travel to the U.S.

SafetyWing Travel Medical insurance is what I use every time I travel to make sure I’m covered in case of accidents, health scares, and of course, the flexibility to get coverage when I need it.

Road Trip Tunisia FAQs

If you still have a few more questions about the Tunisia road trip, you can find the answers below. These are many questions I received from friends and family, as well as others who were planning to visit Tunisia.

What is driving like in Tunisia?

Driving is safe, especially outside of the major cities. It can be a challenge to drive in the larger cities during rush hour as Tunisians don’t often use blinkers, and drive in the middle of the road, straddling both lanes at once. But once you are in the countryside and desert, driving is easy and safe. There are several checkpoints along the way.

Is it safe to rent a car in Tunisia?

Tunisia is very safe for tourists. There was a shooting in Sousse several years ago which has scared some of the tourism off, but it was an isolated incident. Tunisia felt incredibly safe and I would absolutely return to see more of the country. I felt comfortable and safe renting a car in Tunisia, especially because we had rental car insurance, which we ended up using.

Renting a car gives you so much freedom to move around as you wish. That said, if you don’t want to rent a car, then the next best option for traveling around Tunisia is to use a louage. It is a shared taxi van that departs as soon as it is full.

Read More: How to take a louage in Tunisia

Are solo female travelers safe in Tunisia?

Like any place in the world, safety is subjective. There are creepy men all over the entire world, and Tunisia is no exception. The majority of men that I encountered in Tunisia were respectful, kind, and considerate. However, in many of the coastal towns (Sousse, Monastir, Mahdia, and Hammamet), I did receive certain levels of harassment, catcalls, obnoxious men who felt entitled to my time, and some men who followed me. It was nothing compared to Egypt or Morocco , but it did occur. That said, it wasn’t so bad that I wouldn’t return, because I would absolutely return to Tunisia again.

How many days are enough in Tunisia?

Even though Tunisia is a small country, there is so much to see and do. You can easily fill up a Tunisian itinerary of 3 days, 7 days, or 30 days. You just need to realize you can’t see everything, and prioritize what is most important to you. That said, you will be able to see a large chunk of the country if you follow this 10-day Tunisian road trip itinerary.

Is Tunisia worth visiting?

Big time, yes. Tunisia is now one of my favorite countries in the entire world after spending two months there in early 2024. The culture, language, food , people, etc. make this country worth visiting. I highly recommend a visit to Tunisia.

Do you need a visa to visit Tunisia?

Most nationalities do not need a visa to visit Tunisia. US citizens, along with  citizens from 95 other countries  do  NOT  need a visa to visit Tunisia for tourism purposes. You can stay for up to 90 days.

Read more: 21 Things to Know Before Visiting Tunisia

What is the best month to visit Tunisia?

If you’re looking for an affordable beach holiday, then the best time to visit is summer. That said, summer will also be more crowded with tourism which will also increase prices. I was in Tunisia for the end of winter and the beginning of spring. For the most part, the weather was great, especially in March and April. It was never too hot or too cold, and tourism did not feel overwhelming.

Tunisia Road Trip Final Thoughts

Doing a 7-day Tunisia road trip was my favorite week out of two months in Tunisia. I only wish I had more days to see more places. I tried to include all of the most interesting places in this 10-day itinerary so you get a very good variety of city, desert, beach, culture, etc. I really hope you’ll rent a car in Tunisia and have the time of your life, like I did.

TRAVELING SOON? INSURANCE: Cover yourself with travel medical insurance by SafetyWing . FLIGHTS: Get the best flight deals with Skyscanner and set flight alerts with Hopper . STAYS : Check out hotels and apartments with Booking.com and Vrbo . RENTAL CARS: Get the best deal on rental cars with Discover Cars or RentalCars . GOING HIKING? Get a 30% discount off your yearly AllTrails+ Account (code: nickiposts30) eSIM : Get an international eSim with Airalo or eSim ple. CITY GUIDES : Save time and purchase pre-made city guides with Thatch . CITY TOURS : Book your tour with GetYourGuide and Viator LUGGAGE : Get the best carry-on suitcase here . CREDIT CARD: Start earning travel points with the best travel credit card . BUENOS AIRES GUIDE : Purchase my Buenos Aires travel companion here . CONSULTATION : Book a 1:1 travel consultation with Nicki here . SUBSCRIBE: Get the Nicki Posts Travel Stuff newsletter every month.

Nicki has been exploring the world for over 20 years. She has lived in ten countries around the world, traveled to dozens more. Nicki speaks several languages, and is curious about culture, art, and where in the world she really belongs. She wants to help you get out into the world and create your own adventures.

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